Making the Most of the Season You’re In

So much of the time, we live our lives leaning forward in anticipation of the next thing: the next goal, the dream, the raise, etc. This isn’t a bad thing, but let’s not be looking so far ahead that we forget to appreciate the now of it all. This post is also your reminder to love the season that you’re in right now. Make the most of it. Find the joy. You will not be here forever, for better or for worse.

Now let’s talk about how you could do that, since I have some ideas.

Reflection
Sometimes it’s worth it to stop for a moment and reflect on where you are. Remember when being here was only an idea? And yet, you made it this far. Maybe it’s not all the way where you want to be, but stop and take a look around. Where is the good in this season?

I remember a few years ago where I was unemployed for two months, which really sucked. The uncertainty of finding a new job made it a difficult time, but there was some good. My people, friends and family, really showed up for me in every way: bills paid, check-ins, friend dates, you name it. This was the first time in my life I’d really given people the space to show up for me, and I was not disappointed by it, and I’ll cherish that always.

Focus
Here’s some gentle prompting to remind you to look around and be present in the moment in this season. Give your life some undivided attention, and take a break from all the hustle and bustle. It doesn’t have to be in a serious or profound way — it could be as simple as really watching that show, or completely dedicating yourself to cooking a meal, or just sitting in silence and breathing. But just living your life uninterrupted for a short time can be part of making the most of it.

At this point in my life, I’ve been going to a lot of concerts. (This was a goal of mine for this year.) Of course I’ll take some pictures and video for the memories (and the ‘gram) but I try to spend most of the show completely dialed in to what’s happening at the concert. It’s been such a joy to just be, and enjoy the performance.

Exploration
Make your life an adventure! This can be in big or small ways. Maybe it’s a walk along a new route, or visiting a new park, or trying some kind of activity for the first time. There are always new things to explore, wherever you are, so take advantage of them!

During the pandemic lockdowns, I started taking Friday walks as a way to get out of the house while continuing to social distance. In addition to the exercise, I got to see new things in my neighborhood, and I was reminded of the wonder of the outdoors. It was a small way to explore at a time when the world felt so limited.

How might you make the most of the season that you’re in? It doesn’t have to be in the ways that I did, instead, you should take some time to think of what you can do that’s most accessible to where you are right now. Maybe you’ve been feeling really down because this season has been so hard for you. Where can you find some joy?