Walking, Not Running

During the years when I worked in the corporate world, I always seemed to be on the run. There were planes to catch, meetings to attend and an endless stream of deadlines to meet. It was all conducted at high speed and even though it was quite productive work, it also left me with a feeling of somewhat misdirected energy.

As I look back on that time now, I know that it was an important phase of my life, one which provided me with valuable experience in the intricate workings of the commercial world while also offering many unique opportunities for travel. But there was also a toll to be paid for the accelerated pace of moving in that fast lane. It was frequently a time of high stress and career anxiety for me, coupled with near-chronic jet lag. At times I truly enjoyed the adrenaline rush of my work but as exciting as that time was, I am now quite happy to have it behind me.

My days are far more relaxed now that I operate on my own schedule. I may not be as productive as I used to be, at least not if using corporate metrics of productivity, but I do find the results of my daily efforts much more satisfying. I move at a slower pace now, taking more time to notice and appreciate the wondrous variety found in the long stream of moments that make up each of my days. I have the time needed to find idyllic scenes like the one shown in this image of a log bridge over a creek. I’m able to walk through these peaceful places quietly, savoring their beauty rather than screaming over them at high speed from 30,000 feet.

I think each of us has the ability to drive the course of our own lives. We can steer its direction, step on the accelerator or apply the brakes as we see fit. We can even get out and walk for a while if we want to. But we can do this only if we’ve made a conscious decision to be in the driver’s seat, exerting individual control over our life rather than being a passenger whose life is driven by another person, corporation or job. If you’ve been working for someone else, it may be a little frightening to contemplate taking responsibility for being your own driver. It’s been my experience though that this initial trepidation ultimately fades into the background as you experience the exquisite freedom of simply traveling at your own speed.

When I was a child, certainly as energetically mobile as most, I was continually reminded by my parents to “Walk, don’t run” as I moved through the house. That was good advice at the time, but I find it has even more value later in life, especially now that I’ve finally learned the wisdom of applying it to each of my days. I am quite sure that I’m a happier and healthier person as a result.

Note:
I intend to update this blog each week and I do hope you’ll re-visit it often. Since I thrive on your comments, I’d really love to hear from you. Please feel free to email me using the blue email link on the HOME PAGE for this site to send me any questions or comments you might have...or just to say hello. Thank you.

John Carroll

Click Here for More Information