Journey

I don’t fully know where this trait of mine developed, but I have a deep desire to have a clear to-do list. I can’t relax until things are done, my list is always on my mind, and there is a deep satisfaction with getting things completed. 

The problem is, there can always be something on that list. And when it comes to my toddler, the “list” is only done when he’s in bed at night. And what a shame to have sped through the whole day only to look back and wish I hadn’t cared so much about checking things off.

There’s an image I’ve seen on social media that says something along the lines of “Silly me, this is the life I’ve been waiting for the whole time.” And how true that is for me. I’m at a stage where many parents stop me when I’m out and about and tell me to enjoy it because it goes by so fast. 

Even if you’re not a parent, I’m sure you can relate to your workday, hobbies, and time with friends, and identify with times when you’re going through the motions. Maybe you have something else exciting awaiting you, or you’re like me, and you desire a clean slate to-do list.

But what happens when you look back and realize you’ve only been living your life for evenings and weekends? Maybe an additional vacation week a year? That’s a lot of time spent just getting through.

Now, not living for the cleared to-do list doesn’t mean living an emotionless life. Life is meant to have ups and downs, and with my toddler, we ride that roller coaster many times a day. But it means choosing to be present, not always having the next thing on my mind, and sitting down to play with my full attention given.

So, perhaps make being present the only thing on your to-do list. And then, when you end your day and can check that off, it’s met with a feeling of gratitude and joy, rather than regret.