We are busy creatures. Since the industrial revolution, we have been obsessed with efficiency. When the information age came, we took that mindset into our lives. Bombarded by information, entertainment, and social pressure to be more, our lives became chaotic. So let me ask:
When was the last time you enjoyed a moment of silence?
I'm not referring to those alone moments where you mindlessly scroll through Instagram. You know, when you go to the toilet. By silence, I mean no music, no phone, nothing. No action.
For me, these moments of silence became my morning walks to and back from the gym. At first, to make those walk productive, I would listen to an audiobook. But I found that letting my mind free for those walk turned out to be even more productive. Because there's nothing competing for my attention, I have new thoughts, new ideas and I can enjoy the moment.
Technology robbed us these moments. It gives us the illusion of productivity when what we actually need is to do nothing. As the world gets more and more tech-oriented, it becomes even more important to create these moments of silence.
Let's do an exercise. When you finish reading this, put your phone away and go for a walk outside. Just you and your thoughts.