I spend a lot of time thinking about running long distances through new, exciting areas seen by very few humans relative to the hustle and bustle of urban living. This shouldn't come as a surprise if you've read any other portions of this page. I love the logistical puzzle that comes with organizing gear, figuring out a route, and properly training for such long excursions, whether they be as an organized race or a long weekend with friends. I enjoy reading reports of others adventures, watching self-made running documentaries on YouTube, and scrolling endlessly at photos of beautiful locations worth an adventure. The world is an immensely beautiful place if you take a step back from the scar that his human intervention, and it's encouraging to be reminded that human beings haven't ruined everything quite yet. In other words, running in the natural world is my biggest distraction. Or is it more?
There is power in recognizing what your "distractions" are and considering what they might have more to offer with respect to other aspects of our lives and our overall wellbeing. Think about how you feel when you're distracted by that one activity, location, or person that you find yourself returning to day after day with your free time. What's going on with your body? Is your heart rate lower? Do you feel calmer? Are you in a better mood? Do you feel motivated to act on that distraction? I'd venture to guess that the answer to all of those questions is yes.
This isn't going to be another "follow your dreams" rant because we all know life simply doesn't work like that for everyone. We all have to do things we don't necessarily enjoy in order to have our needs met in a world that isn't built to champion those needs. However, recognizing what distracts us and thoughtfully thinking about ways we can incorporate elements of that distraction into our daily lives can have a significant positive impact.
Are there types of work, whether it be research and logistics, time outdoors, or time spent discussing a topic with friends, that you can apply to your life in more places? Can your work location change? Can you surround yourself with reminders of your distraction? Our distractions give us an insight into a more idealized state of being. They give us a glimpse into the kind of life we'd most like to live if we didn't have to worry about the many needs that consume us. That distraction, though, isn't simply a singular idea. It is a way of being that leans into our strengths more intentionally and allows us to execute the skills and display the passion that we are capable of every day. Those distractions offer us a window into a better self. So, what distracts you?
