Chapter 1: The Pressure of Time

From a young age, I have experienced an overwhelming sense of urgency in life.

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It often feels like a loud ticking clock, constantly reminding me of what I need to achieve.

When I was fifteen, choosing my GCSE subjects, I felt the pressure to select the most advantageous ones. After taking a gap year, I was met with skepticism about my decision; the expectation was always to continue straight to university.

My travels in the Philippines with friends after graduation were overshadowed by the looming idea of returning to my job in August. It seemed impossible to simply enjoy these moments when everything felt directed towards future goals.

Questions from caring friends and family members only added to the pressure: “What’s your plan? What’s next? Is that realistic?” It wasn't until the lockdown in 2020 that I truly learned what it meant to live in the present. Like many, I was compelled to find comfort in the now.

During this time, the future felt uncertain, and reflecting on the past brought discomfort. I discovered peace in the present moment, a revelation that aligned with the teachings of Eckhart Tolle: “Realize deeply that the present moment is all you ever have.”

In this space, I found relief from the constant nagging of “you’re not doing enough!” I began a journey of deeper healing, examining the patterns that had kept me from truly experiencing life.

Through self-love and compassion, I was introduced to Breathwork and found that I could meditate effectively. I learned to train my mind to concentrate on one task at a time.

The outcome of these practices? I realized that the urgency I felt was primarily driven by societal pressures and my own ego. Time isn't slipping away as quickly as we often think.

Chapter 2: The Illusion of Time

While it’s true that our time on this planet is limited, constantly fixating on the future robs us of the present moment. You miss the joy of a loved one’s embrace when your mind is preoccupied with work meetings.

You can't fully enjoy hearty laughter with family if you’re always rushing. Cherished moments, like cozying up with a partner, fade into distant memories if you prioritize early morning routines dictated by societal expectations.

It’s time to rebel against that inner voice demanding constant productivity. This is how you reclaim your time. The ego, the mind, and societal norms will always make you feel inadequate—whether it’s about finances, appearance, or age.

Why not create a sense of comfort in the present?

Settle in with a lovely vase of flowers. Take a scenic route to work to appreciate the surroundings. Choose family time over a morning workout.

Learn meditation techniques to quiet the relentless voice that pulls you away from the now.

In conclusion, I would choose to accomplish far fewer tasks in life rather than complete them without being fully present to enjoy each moment. What about you?

Do you appreciate the details of a leaf, or does the thought of pausing to admire nature frustrate you?

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The first video, “What's The Rush | Interlude - Joey Kidney (Official Music Video),” beautifully encapsulates the theme of urgency in our lives, reminding us to slow down and appreciate what we have.

The second video, “What's The Rush? | Trailer,” further explores this idea, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own relationship with time and presence.

With love,

Camilla