Live for the experience… not the performance

I just read Peter Bregman’s commentary on Harvard Business Review’s site, Stop Focusing on Your Performance, and I must say that it’s one of the best articles that I have ever read on that site. The gist of the article is that life is a series of experiences and don’t spend time thinking about your accomplishments or how you look (your performance), essentially…

…live your life in the moment!

The advice is easier said than done. I admit that I’ve been trying for some time to do just that — to stop thinking about outward appearances and start looking for true, fulfilling experiences that brings real happiness.

I especially like the little nugget of information he shared on how you may be able to stay within the moment. Several times a day, complete this sentence:

“This is what it feels like to…”

There are no right or wrong feelings, just experiences.

This year I’ve set the goal of just taking time to enjoy myself and spend time with family and friends (need to make some more of these – friends that is). Unfortunately, it has not gotten off to a good start; I’ve been working almost non-stop since the year has started.

Perhaps I need to heed Peter’s advice and take notice of the moments that I do have and do share with those that I care about. I too often do not take the time to appreciate what I have and the time spent with my children, and it’s time that to start doing that.

This is what it feels like to be inspired to live.