Approach the World Slowly and Mindfully

In our western culture, we have been trained to rush to the goal and believe that immediate gratification is essential to our happiness. Yet if speed is essential to happiness, then why do all spiritual traditions teach that slowing down is the key? The fact is that no one can tell you how to be happy. It is something that comes from within. However, if you don't feel the kind of bliss that you long for, why not at least try to slow down and be more mindful of your present experience?

Don't automatically assume that what brings pleasure and happiness must always be something big, expensive, and new, or that it must be delivered immediately. The fact is that usually the opposite is true; something small, inexpensive, familiar, and simple is often what brings us the most pleasure.

Ironically, even approaching and being with pain, discomfort, and displeasure in a slow and mindful fashion can turn out to be rewarding. This goes against everything we have been taught to believe. Of course, it is natural to want to avoid pain. It is in our genetic coding. But if you take the time to sit with your pain or discomfort, you will find that these unpleasant feelings can contain great gifts.

Now, I don't mean to imply that you should stay in that space forever, only that you needn't immediately rush to escape it. Take the time to learn what it has to teach you and then move forward with clear intention.

One of the benefits of moving slowly and mindfully is that you will make your choices more consciously and avoid the constant repetition of unconscious patterns. When you begin to move toward the full experience of pleasure, do so slowly and mindfully. Look for the small, simple things in your life that give you pleasure. Do not make assumptions about the form it should take.

Start by thinking about the things, people, or activities in your life that give you pleasure. Choose one and then imagine yourself approaching it slowly and mindfully and taking as much time as you would like to enjoy what gives you pleasure. Then allow yourself to have this experience for real. Take your time to experience your pleasure as deeply and fully as you possibly can. Enjoy!