Signs You Need to Meditate: The “busy” trap
How often have you heard yourself lamenting, “there just aren’t enough hours in the day”, or “things have been so busy”? It’s not uncommon – the reality is that most of us find ourselves running from one task or place to the next, and then filling the gaps in between with distractions like scrolling through Instagram or watching Netflix.
The problem with this need to keep ourselves preoccupied at all times is that it results in the opposite of ‘getting more done’ – being busy all the time makes the brain less efficient, less productive, and worsens overall performance. It also leaves little room for reflection and a break from routine, which is what makes life more meaningful.
Here are some clear signs that you would stand to benefit from a meditation practice:
Are you constantly checking your smartphone for notifications?
Do you feel guilty if you don’t have much work to do?
Is it difficult for you to relax or take vacation?
Is it difficult for you to sit in silence without external stimulation of any kind?
Do your days consist of going from one to-do list item to the next?
Do you find it difficult not to talk about work?
Do others consider you a workaholic?
Being ‘too busy’ can often be just a reflection of priorities, and not a real reason to take some time for self-care. After all, if high achievers such as Tim Ferriss, Oprah Winfrey, Ray Dalio, and Ellen DeGeneres practice daily meditation, you can too.
Most people believe that although their schedules are jam-packed they are still in control of their life, and how they spend their time. In fact, you may not even be consciously aware of the extent to which keeping yourself busy controls your life.
If you found yourself nodding “yes” to one or more of those questions, you’re in dire need of a heavy dose of mindfulness. Email us!
Reference:
Harvard Business Review. (2018). The Busyness Trap. [online] Available at: https://hbr.org/2011/05/the-busyness-trap [Accessed 5 Mar. 2018]. https://choosemuse.com/blog/best-time-to-meditate/