Navigating the Year-End Rush: Where Has Your Focus Been?

By Jocelyn Little

In the relentless pursuit of squeezing every moment from our busy lives, the ticking clock often leaves us feeling like time is slipping away faster than ever. The demands on our plate can be overwhelming, forcing us to constantly reassess how we allocate our precious time. But are we assigning the right priorities to the forefront?

My son reminded me of this important lesson. This year is extra special for him as he steps into his teens. With the rush of everything happening in life, time slipped away and I found myself rushing to plan a 13th birthday party for him. I began stressing about what food to make, what party favors to provide, and all the ideas I had to make this a special event for him. But I couldn’t find the peanuts to make the special appetizer I had planned! Amidst the chaos of finding the peanuts, my soon-to-be 13-year-old stoped me and said, “Who cares if you don’t find the peanuts? No matter what, it will be great, mom. As long as you and my friends are there.”

While I was focused on the unimportant details of celebrating his 13th birthday, he was focused on what truly mattered — who he celebrated with. You could say that my focus was mere peanuts compared to his focus on time spent wisely.

Amidst the chaos of our daily lives, particularly during the festive season, it becomes imperative to pause and contemplate the trajectory of our time investment. While certain responsibilities are unavoidable, it's crucial to question where our focus and attention lies – both personally and professionally. What milestones did we conquer this year? Where did we fall short, and how do we plan to bridge the gap between aspirations and actions?

On an emotional level, the bedrock of a happy and fulfilling life lies in our relationships. Whether in the workplace or personal spheres, cultivating positive connections imbues richness and meaning into every facet of our existence. Yet, it's paramount to reflect on how we nurture these relationships, regardless of their depth. Actively tending to these connections, from brief encounters with the grocery clerk to profound family bonds, invites positive, renewing emotions into our lives. Engaging with positivity not only enhances our well-being but also influences those around us to do the same. Who did I make smile? Whose eyes did I light up? Whom did I comfort, support, influence, or share a moment with? And who provided those gestures for me?

In the words of Virgil, "But meanwhile time flies; it flies never to be regained." As we reflect on the passing year, think about where our focus has been. Evaluate the steps taken toward our goals and dreams. Examine the people who shared their time with us, even if only briefly, and those to whom we offered the same – therein lies the magic. Urgency is paramount as we enter the holiday season and step into a new year. Time will continue its relentless pace, and our lives will grow busier. It's imperative to be mindful of how we spend our time, ensuring that our energy and efforts are invested wisely. Best wishes for a fulfilling new year, where your priorities align with your purpose and passions and your relationships blossom with shared moments.