Caught Up in the Chase: Trading Time for Money
In one way every life is equal, none of us have an unlimited amount of time! Seems like we think about it a lot as it is the subject of a many stories, from immortal vampires to time machines. Even in our everyday lives there are ads all over touting time-saving gadgets and cosmetics that will “turn back the hands of time.” As a child I don’t recall feeling like I didn’t have enough time, but that DEFINITELY isn’t the case now. It seems like my list is longer everyday and the clock faster!
To get that time, we work hard to earn more money so we can do things with those we love. But it is easy to get hooked, obsessed or addicted to the work. Once that happens, we only see the chase and lose sight of the reason we started in the first place – spending time the way we wanted. For me, it isn’t that I changed my mind about what I wanted, there is just something seducing about the chase. And, it happens when we aren’t looking.
One way I’m trying to stay focused on my true goal of spending time with my loved ones is to live more simply. If I don’t need as much, then it’s easier to not be blinded by chasing it. Of course, that in itself can be challenging, but when I stop to really consider what is more important to me, the time always wins. The trick is to make sure that I’m concious, engaged and present.
Is this something you struggle with? What are ways you stay focused on what you want? I can’t wait to hear from you.
