I remember reading, many years ago, an interview with Ron Howard.
Howard was a professor at Stanford University for more than a half century and is widely regarded as the father of decision analysis.
He had an ‘awakening’ experience in his early mid-years and attended Buddhist retreats where he was exposed to contemplative practices.
There is a ton of evidence to show that people are programmed to see what they are led to see. Howard said, and I am paraphrasing, that if he introduced a friend as “..the most brilliant person I know” then others would readily notice his intelligence.
If he introduced someone as “..I’d watch out with this guy. He is pretty sneaky,” then they would perceive that person as devious.
Howard decided to turn inward with this idea and create his own reality. He had always, for decades, juggled with his to-do list. He would prioritize tasks, move them around on his calendar, and beat himself up when he was unable to finish his work,
He decided to create a reality of “I always have plenty of time.”
He consciously thought of this as his frame when he got up and lived in that space. His behavior changed. When someone said “Hi” to him in the office, he stopped to chat for a few minutes instead of hurrying on.
And, somehow, more stuff got done.
There were still plenty of unfinished items on his lists, but fewer than before and the stress of being behind all the time went away.
What do you tell yourself each day?
Do feel that you are constantly under the gun and often overwhelmed?
Recognize that it is just a powerful stream of mental chatter coursing through your mind. Everybody gets the same 24 hours each day. A serial killer does not get docked. A hedge fund mogul does not get a few extra on the side.
The thought that you do not have enough time is just that.
A thought.
Replace that thought with “I have all the time in the world” and do what you have to calmly, methodically and with full focus.
You will be surprised at how much more you get done. And you will not be frazzled.
Peace!
