Slowing Down

Something I’ve noticed since I’ve been back in San Francisco for a couple weeks is that everyone seems to be in a hurry. Always rushing from place to place, running across the red lights so they can get where they’re going faster, and also constantly looking at their phones, even as they walk. It’s like there’s so much to do that there’s not even enough time to look around and enjoy your surroundings as you walk.

Something I learned while in Greece is that I have much less anxiety and stress when I don’t rush. When I have somewhere to be, I always make sure I allow extra time to get where I’m going so I don’t feel anxious or stressed about being late. I’m one of those people that absolutely hates being late, so I need to make sure that I build in enough time to get where I’m going early or on time.

As I’ve done this, not only have my anxiety levels decreased, but I’ve paid much more attention to my surroundings and noticed a lot more of the little, beautiful things around me. Yesterday I walked a mile to a meeting I had, and it was amazing to see all of the construction that’s happening, to smile at people (the ones that weren’t looking down or at their phones), and just generally appreciate everything around me.

I arrived with time to spare, so I was able to explore a new and very interesting part of the city I hadn’t seen, as well as take some deep breathes to prepare myself for the meeting.

I’m a bit worried about transitioning back to city life, but I really hope I don’t lose the ability to slow down. It has truly enriched my life and made me appreciate my surroundings much more, and I’ve noticed that I’m much happier as my anxiety has dropped significantly. Here’s to slowing down to appreciate the small things and preserve a healthy level of calmness!

Some cute street art I passed on my walk yesterday.