During an NHL hockey game, the average ice time for a player per shift is 30 seconds. When a player hits the ice, he gives all of his strength and his full focus, because in 30 seconds, multiple goals can be scored and games can be won or lost. Then he sits for a few minutes and gets up to do it again.
While most of us won't be strapping on a pair of ice skates anytime soon, we can power up our lives with a 30 second change. We have the ability to accomplish a multitude of tasks in just 30 seconds.
Here are nine things that can be done in just 30 seconds:
•Walk around the room to get your blood flowing
•Catch your breath after vigorous exercise
•File the papers on your desk
•Stretch your neck, shoulders and touch your toes
•Write an email
•Tell a joke and laugh
•Create clarity so you can see your next step
•Center your awareness in gratitude
•Meditate and dissolve in Samadhi
In our fast-paced world, on a planet that's literally rotating at 1,000 miles per hour, we can feel like we don't have time to do anything. We attempt to multi-task, but what really happens is we rush through our to-do list without focusing on any one task and then we often have to fix the mistakes caused by our lack of attention to what we're doing.
What we don't realize in our mission to get it all done fast is we are more efficient when we do one task at a time. Even a computer's CPU, which gives the illusion of multi-tasking, really does only one function at a time; it just does it very quickly and switches between programs seamlessly.
The next time you feel frazzled and moving in great haste, stop for just 30 seconds. Time yourself, because 30 seconds is much longer than you may think. Take deep breaths and allow yourself to feel the air fill and empty from your lungs. Focus on all the little things that bring you joy. Give thanks for all that you have right now.
After 30 seconds, look at your to-do list and pick just one task. (Don't have a to-do list written down? Make that your first task.) Like a hockey player, give that activity your full focus and strength for 30 seconds. You might be surprised that after 30 seconds, you can keep going. Maintain this same intensity of focus for 10 minutes, and notice how much you get done.
Perhaps after 10 or 15 minutes you'll need to check your messages or email. Give the task of checking messages your full attention. Then switch to the next item on the list, again giving your entire focus to whatever it is that you need to do.
When you get lost in the hustle and your focus begins to waver, then stop for 30 seconds to make a change.
What can you accomplish in 30 second bursts?
Would you like to learn more about meditation and mindfulness?
Join me for class at www.DharmaCenter.com
This article was originally published on www.JennaSundell.com
(Bruins photo by Jenna Sundell)