My pace of life is beginning to intentionally change.

For so long I’ve wished time away, always wanting to be in the next stage of life. I would fill my calendar with every last possible thing that I could fit into my agenda. My daily routine consisted of rushing from one thing on my list to the next. There was little living in the moment going on, rather always striving for something other than the present moment.

It became very apparent to me that I kept a tight calendar when multiple friends would approach me to do something and would lead with, “I know you’re busy, but…” I hated when people would lead with that. I was hurt by it, actually. But I had to come to grips with the fact that I was the one that had become the “too busy for you” friend. It hurt because I don’t want to be that friend, sister, daughter, aunt, etc. I want to be the, “I’ll drop anything for you because I love you” friend.

So I’m working on it. I’m trying to change that perception. I’m trying to figure out how to be accountable to the things I do commit to, but also to always be available for the people that really matter to me. I’m trying to figure out how to be present in the life of my family that lives hundreds of miles from me. I’m trying to figure out how to love better.

No matter where I am or what I’m doing, I’m trying to be present with all of me. Slowing down the pace of my life is my goal. I’ve already got almost 30 years of life under my belt and it’s gone by so fast. I don’t want the next 30 years to rush by me without soaking in every moment.

Make this moment count.

Give yourself a few minutes to sit in silence and wait for God’s lead each day.

Enjoy dining with friends or family. Don’t rush off immediately after your last bite. Stay. Sit and talk. Enjoy your time together.

When someone sidetracks your plans, enjoy the journey that the new plan may take you on.

Don’t overlook anyone that you cross paths with throughout your day. Every person matters. If they don’t matter to you (yet), remember that they matter to someone. It’s not that tough to smile.

Slow down. Have patience. Let go of control. Clear your mind of your to-do list.

Remember that God’s plan is better than any plan you could possible orchestrate for yourself.

Don’t just “get by” in life. Be present. Now is the time to start.