Unexpected Paths to Happiness #1
“Distractions waste our energy; concentration restores it to us,” states Sharon Salzberg.
We are living in the midst of the age of distraction. In all of human history, it has never been easier to be distracted. It is so easy to become addicted to it. In fact, you may even have a sense of withdrawal when no screen is on, you’re not checking your phone incessantly or when constant communications cease. People expect to have instant access to us via text or chat, and may even shame us or almost insist that we reply quickly.
It’s exhausting.
Turn it all off for a bit. Breathe. Stay in the moment. Focus on the in and out of your breath. Let go of distraction.
From a posture of concentration on your breath, a fountain, a fire, music or a word or phrase, you relax. Peace settles in to your mind, your emotions, your soul. And from this sense of peace blossoms a deep joy, a happiness defined more by contentment than ecstasy. With practice you can develop the skill to regain calm in 5 to 20 minute snatches of time throughout your day. You are more cognitive, less emotional.
Then, you return to the work, the people and the storm, almost impervious to the craziness and intent on the task at hand. One thing at a time, one person at a time, you complete your work and it is so much more satisfying. You have regained proper perspective because you took the counterintuitive path of concentration.
Worth Repeating
Distractions waste our energy; concentration restores it to us.
-Sharon Salzberg.
