If you live in Nigeria, you would know that everything is always on the move. From bus drivers calling passengers in rush to people hiking into it at a fast speed to even market scenery getting all crowded and chaotic. One may wonder, when will Nigerians ever catch a breath. Yes, as a Nigerian you can boldly say that you’ve crossed seven seas and climbed five mountains because, to be honest, it is not easy to be a Nigerian living in Nigeria.
It is mostly said that almost all Nigerians have a crazy side in their pockets and everyone is always ready to unleash it when necessary. Isn’t this the reason why there is gbas gbos everywhere in the country? Amidst all these, it can be difficult to live life at your own pace because it seems like everything and everyone around you is moving at a faster pace. Blame it on the hustling spirit of Nigerians.
But on a more serious note, I feel we shouldn’t live our lives like we are going to die tomorrow. Yes, the world might end soon but even so. I feel everyone is rushing, trying to do one million things at a time without actually taking a pause or a break. I would not even lie, I was guilty of this too until I received sense. What is life if I am living it as if I am being pursued? Do you know how much workload and mental strain you are giving your brain if you continue to do things like Flash? If no one is going to say the truth, I will be the voice for everyone.
Before anything else, let me tell you what slow living is. It might be a weird or rarely said word but it is actually a thing. Slow living (in my own terms) simply means living life in the moment—enjoying the simple things of life and finding joy in it. In layman’s terms, it means slow down and just enjoy your life. No one is pursuing you lol. Trust me, I know we have deadlines, goals to achieve, dreams to chase, and everything else but then again, if we are trying to rush ahead and do these things whilst neglecting the present moment, are we not missing out on life? Think about it.
Slow living is important because it helps you to live a more fulfilling life. A life where you are actively living and not just engrossed in what the future would be. Take things slowly but steadily. Embrace the moments you are presently in. Enjoy what today has to offer. In the long run, you will find out that you are beginning to enjoy life even better.
It is no surprise as to why I am choosing to embrace the art of slow living. As someone who gets really anxious, expectant and nervous, it is important that I take things slowly as opposed to rushing. It gives me a better understanding of things and further helps me process situations better. I also experience more peace since I am not bothered about what someone else is doing or how far they’ve gone. I am simply focusing on myself and enjoying my pace.
While it may be necessary to take actions swiftly and on time, let’s try to also pause and take a breather. Life isn’t a race to see who the winner would be. It’s more of an individual journey where you get to learn and pick up a few things along the way. Regardless of what phase of life you might be in, I’m rooting for you and I am hoping you take things easy just as it comes.
Cheers to more happy days and moments.
Till my next post.
Damilola Yvonne Oderinde
Writer & Content Manager
Nigeria