One of the lessons that I have learned in my three years as a New York City resident is that time does move faster here. True the hustle and bustle on the streets would seem a tangible and observable signifier, however I have found that my own personal time moves faster. One minute you’re waking up in the morning and getting ready for work and the next you realize you’re settled back in the apartment with a red wine nightcap.
Photo courtesy of masterworksnm.org.
While the unpredictable nature of New York City is one that I treasure and am drawn to constantly, I think making a point to stop and reflect daily is also quite necessary. Whether keeping a private journal, doing yoga or meditating, coming back and realigning your thoughts and your center is key to understanding how to come to peace with yourself and your needs. Often we run ourselves down and do not stop to recognize this until we are visibly sick–perhaps we should all make a point this year to be a bit kinder to ourselves.
I think that New Yorkers work harder than any other people in the world- I can’t say I’ve been to every crevice to compare, but from my travels and chats with friends, I think many would agree. Although we pride ourselves in this, it also may be time for each of us to put aside even an hour, a half hour or ten minutes of our day to just stop. Crazy thought? Being known for burning myself out as a constant yesser (not being able to turn down a project, a task, an adventure), I will try to live by own words of advice first and will touch base to see how this all turns out.
What does this have to do with Mycuriocity? Well everything I think. Taking the time to write about and reflect on one of the past times I enjoy and am researching in grad school will have to become a priority once again. So for better or for worse (I hope you’re thinking better) the posts will not be few and far between.
So rock on New Yorkers (and everyone else too!). In light of my reassessed New York spirit, here is a short and sweet article about why although we may leave NYC, the city will continue to beckon our return…
