See What’s in Front of You
Thanksgiving is upon us here in the U.S. As often happens, it feels like the green flag has started a car race and, from here on out, we’re all going at top speed to get things done before the end of the year. But I recently came across a quote that’s helping me tap the brakes and take the pressure off:
“Writing is like driving at night in the fog. You can only see as far as your headlights, but you can make the whole trip that way.”
E. L. Doctorow’s wonderful perspective on writing is also directly pertinent to life, especially during the holidays and the fourth quarter. We don’t have to look too far ahead as we make our way through the fogginess of the chaotic season. We don’t need to see all the way down the road; we just have to truly see what’s right in front of us.
As you sit down to break bread with the people you’ve chosen to spend your day with, appreciate that illumination in the fog and be fully present—one moment at a time.
You can make the whole day that way. Indeed, you can get through the whole season that way: bit by bit, precious moment by precious moment, connection by connection.
Happy Thanksgiving! I am indeed grateful you are all part of EPI’s tribe.
-Michelle Kelly, CEO (Chief Enjoyment Officer)
Recommended Reading
Meditations for Mortals
by Oliver Burkeman
I’m currently reading Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts, which I’m greatly appreciating because I can use all the help I can get in embracing my imperfections.
What really stands out for me with this book is the simple, central idea that Burkeman manages to make feel revelatory: Our imperfect life is now; it’s not waiting to start until we complete our to-do list. Life’s happening all around us, and we’re never, ever going to be on top of everything. When we wait for things to be perfect, we miss out on a LOT.
You can read this over four weeks or make it last longer or devour it in one sitting. Just read it! It will help you shift your mindset toward recognizing—and embracing—your own personal reality.
More Good Stuff from EPI
