I Learned to Stop Scrolling and Love the Moment (and Quirky Dogs)

In today’s fast-paced world, we are frequently caught up in the never-ending search of the future. From an early age, we are taught to plan for the future, to dream large, and to make goals that will move us forward. However, as I approach maturity, I am confronted with a paradox: the very future I have been taught to value suddenly makes me anxious. It’s an endless loop of expectation that frequently blinds me to the beauty of the current moment.

Have you ever been in the company of someone who appears more interested in their phone than the conversation at hand? It’s a modern-day pet peeve that many of us have, and I’ve resolved to address it head on this year. By actively choosing to spend less time on my phone, I’ve discovered a world hidden in plain sight—one full of brilliant colours, intriguing noises, and genuine human interactions.

As I turned away from the television, I was met with breathtaking views of sunrises and sunsets, each one a masterpiece painted across the sky. The colours orange, pink, and purple merge together harmoniously, creating a canvas that conveys amazement and tranquilly. I’ve seen funny dogs sitting in automobiles, their tails bouncing with unrestrained joy, and peaceful areas ideal for meditation. More importantly, I’ve had meaningful interactions with those around me, which have enhanced my life in ways I never expected.

In today’s digital age, it’s all too simple to retreat into the virtual world, where interactions are simplified and pleasure is instant. However, there is something priceless about interacting with another human being face to face. It’s a unique experience that goes beyond the superficiality of likes and shares, reminding us of our common humanity. It’s no surprise that so many of us feel isolated, despite the fact that the globe is more connected than ever before.

If you find yourself attached to your phone, I encourage you to take a modest step towards liberty. When you’re waiting in queue at a restaurant or grocery, resist the temptation to scroll mindlessly. Instead, take a time to notice the environment around you. Take note of the small details—the way the light filters through the windows, the looks on people’s faces, the rhythm of life that unfolds around you. Compliment a stranger on their clothes or offer a nice remark to someone who appears to be having a difficult day. You never know how a little act of kindness might improve someone’s day.

When you’re out taking a stroll or commuting, challenge yourself to notice the nuances that typically go overlooked. Count the many types of trees or flowers you come across. Look up at the sky and recognise the shapes of the clouds. Listen to the sounds around you—birds tweeting, children laughing, and leaves rustling in the breeze. These moments of awareness can help you stay present and provide a break from the anxiety of what’s to come.

I still enjoy daydreaming about the future; it’s an essential part of who I am. But I’ve learnt how important it is to establish a balance. Obsessing over the future to the point of anxiety is not only ineffective, but it may also be paralysing. If, like me, you find yourself overwhelmed by anxiety, remember that it is acceptable to admit it. Be aware of your emotions and give yourself permission to completely experience them. Before you know it, the storm will pass, and you’ll have the strength to take the next step.

Embracing the present has given me a renewed sense of calm and fulfilment. It’s a path that needs deliberate effort and the resolve to let go of the incessant desire for control. However, by doing so, I’ve opened myself up to a world of wonder and connection that was always present, waiting to be discovered.

Imagine the sun warming your skin as you sit in a park, with a gentle breeze conveying the aroma of blooming flowers. Consider the laughing of youngsters playing nearby, their joy infectious and genuine. These are the moments that make life rich and important, and they remind us of the beauty that lives outside of our screens.

As I’ve travelled this path of self-discovery, I’ve come to value the importance of thankfulness. Every day, I make an effort to reflect on the things I’m grateful for—the supportive friends who boost me up, the family who loves me unconditionally, and the opportunities that come my way. Gratitude has the ability to redirect our attention from what we lack to what we have, from anxiety to gratitude.

Furthermore, I’ve come to realise the value of self-compassion. In a culture that often expects perfection, it’s tempting to be hard on ourselves for failing to meet expectations. However, loving the present entails accepting ourselves as we are, warts included. It entails acknowledging that we are deserving of love and kindness from both others and ourselves.

So, I advise you to put down your phone, elevate your head, and take in your surroundings. Engage with the people you encounter, appreciate the beauty of the present moment, and realise that life is happening right now. The future will arrive in due course, but the present is a gift that should be treasured. Let us not let it go through our grasp.

Finally, the journey from anxiety to awareness demands courage and commitment. It’s about breaking free from the constraints of continual connectedness and appreciating the richness of real-life encounters. It’s about finding delight in the little things and cultivating the relationships that are genuinely meaningful. As we travel this journey, remember that we have the ability to construct our reality, to choose presence over obsession, and to live a life that is truly satisfying.

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