In life we are often so busy, dashing from one situation to the next, that we are often either absorbed with what we have just done or are preoccupied thinking forward to the next item on our mental check list. We often hear people talk about the importance of living in the present. The truth is that if we give our full attention to what we are doing right now we will reap many benefits, manage stress better, enjoy what we are doing more and improve our levels of satisfaction.
- Communications. One thing that inspired me to write this article was that this morning I had to book in for a class at the gym and whilst I was doing so I was continuing an earlier conversation with my friend. As I walked away from the reception desk I thought about how inconsiderate I had been to the receptionist. I should have concentrated on speaking properly to her, given her my full attention and then resumed my conversation with my friend.
Treating other people, staff in restaurants, shops and service industries with respect ensures that they feel valued and appreciated for what they are doing. They are people working to support us and when we notice and appreciate what they are doing we benefit by getting a happier, more satisfactory service. It is a win/win situation for all concerned.
- Food. Many people eat on the run, or whilst doing something else like watching television or working on the computer. By taking time and having a break to eat, concentrating on our food, eating more slowly, savouring each mouthful, we give ourselves time out from our busy lives and also will probably find that we eat less and enjoy it more. Eating whilst doing something else often means that we eat more than we need because we are distracted and are hardly aware of what we are eating.
- Exercise. By concentrating on each exercise and focussing on each muscle as we work it research has found that we get more benefit from our exercise regimes. By thinking about each exercise we concentrate on better alignment and position, put maximum effort into each movement and mentally exercise along with our bodies.
- Children. They thrive on attention. By spending quality time with children they will appreciate and value our relationship with them. They will feel loved and important. Children often value the time spent with them more than lavish, expensive gifts. And when there is a good relationship in place it is easier to converse about problem areas, find out if something is troubling them. They will have confidence in being able to confide matters and talk more openly.
- Relationships. Sometimes it is better to arrive home from work thirty minutes later, rather arrive stressed and in a bad mood after a tough day at the office. Giving our full attention to our partner and to our special relationships means that we are able to enjoy being with them and are not distracted by other issues. Sometimes stopping the car and listening to a CD for a little while or going for a quick steam or a swim before arriving home can make all the difference to the quality of the evening. A short break can sometimes be a valuable way of drawing a line between the stresses of work and enable a pleasant return home.
By following these simple guidelines we can give our full attention to each important area of our lives.
Susan Leigh, Counsellor and Hypnotherapist
www.lifestyletherapy.net