Hey guys, it’s that time again! Time to look at what we learned from last month’s Mindfulness Challenge. September’s challenge was extremely difficult for me and based on what I heard from you guys it was hard for you too. That’s exactly why I’m so glad we were able to work on it together!
The idea was to stay present while driving – no texting, changing the music, eating, doing your makeup, etc. Most of us are guilty of distracted driving now and then whether we like to admit it or not. I challenged us to solely listen to podcasts or playlists we made ahead of time, put our phone in the backseat, and just relax with two hands on the wheel. Now that September is over, I’m going to try to maintain this way of driving and I hope you do too. Here’s why I think this is so important…
Benefits of Staying Mindful While Driving
It provides us with built-in time to rest.
If we’re truly just driving when we drive instead of trying to do or think about a zillion other things, it can actually be quite peaceful. In life there are so many things surrounding us that demand our attention and effort. When you’re in a car it’s like there’s a little bubble between you and the world (except for when you have to deal with bad drivers) so take advantage of it! Pray, meditate, you decide… Just try not to let your mind race.
We’re made aware of our habits.
This was a big one for me. What this challenge showed me was exactly how much I am on my phone when I drive. It’s not like I text and drive all the time, but I definitely have a habit of checking my phone at red lights or changing the song if I’m not into what’s playing. Once I realized what an issue this was for me it made me more prone to want to work on it.
I have to mention it also opened my eyes to all of the other people on the road who were on their phones and let me tell you… It was A LOT. Like a concerning amount. I suddenly felt extremely scared of the cars around me lol.
You can notice the beauty around you.
One day in particular I really tried to keep my thoughts clear in the car in order to take in what I was driving by. I saw stores and restaurants I had never seen before, found places I want to shoot photos for the blog, and was even able to appreciate the leaves changing for fall more than I usually do.
Most important of all… it’s safer.
Distracted driving is extremely dangerous! Many people say it’s even more dangerous than drunk driving. When we intentionally choose to keep our eyes and mind on the road, our odds of getting into an accident instantly decrease.
~~~~~
October Mindfulness Challenge
Ready to join me in October’s challenge? The idea for this month came from my friend Meghan Young. She’s a fellow Seattleite who gives me (and many others) so much inspiration to spend time outside… Check out her blog here and her Instagram here! The challenge is to stay mindful in relation to the small things, and there are two ways to look at it. 1. Stay present and mindful of your surroundings so that you’re more able to appreciate the little beauties in life. 2. Be mindful of the way you treat people (your loved ones AND strangers) and look out for ways to bless them with small gestures.
So excited to see what we discover with this challenge!
XO Sorelle