If you have ever walked through a Las Vegas casino or down the Las Vegas Strip, then you know it is an experience. Some people enjoy the “action” of what happens, but I am not one of them. However, some times, business takes you to places that may not be on your bucket list (or any other list, for that matter).
I arrived early to ensure we were ready for opening day of the trade show and, as a result, had some extra time before it all began. When you come to Las Vegas, there are simple choices.
You can stay in the hotel on the Strip, take in the colors that artificially draw you in, and participate in hustle and bustle.
Another option is to get outside of the artificial setting and explore beyond the immediate boundaries. In the case of Las Vegas, it may mean a quick road trip to Red Rock Canyon.
Although you cannot escape the Las Vegas Strip completely, you can choose how to spend your time. No matter where we are, we have that choice – how we spend our time.
I chose to see Red Rock Canyon on that Sunday and hike on some of the trails. At the end of the day, I felt a little more refreshed, a little more centered. Natural beauty and fresh air have a way of doing this.
These two pictures illustrate, simply, what our choices can look like. They help us visualize what can suck us in or deliver a renewed perspective.
Visual perspectives can cut two ways. One way is that they can pull us in and take our time away unproductively. Another way is that they can reach deep into our soul, slow the pace of time for a moment, and sprinkle us with a refreshed breeze of what may be possible.
It is easy to stay put. It is harder to get up, go out, and do something that pulls us away from what looks good where we are. At times, we need to break away to regain, or maintain, what is important in our lives. It is about living by certain principles and living with purpose.
We need to strive to make the right choice on how we use our time… it is our choice. Visualize it. See through where it can take us, and then select the best place to use your time.
I loved this, Jon!
I recently attended a blogging conference and I, too, found I wasn’t drawn to the flashy, the over-the-top, and the obvious aspects of the experience. My favorite part of the conference wasn’t the swag or the parties, it was the moments in which I connected with the amazing people I met at the conference. It was in the quiet moments in my hotel room when I reflected on the insight and inspiration that was so freely shared.
It’s important to ask myself, “where’s the beauty in this experience?” and focus my energy there. There are many exciting and attention-grabbing distractions all around me, but in those areas my energy is quickly burned. I am fueled by connection, spirit, nature, and reflection.
Gratefully,
Chrysta
Chrysta, There is always beauty in good conversations with good people. So right! Hope your conference was fruitful and energizing! Thanks. Jon
Beatiful Jon. Time is indeed our most precious resouce. This is a great reminder to invest it wisely. I would have made the same choice as you in this case.
Thanks, Susan! The only regret I have is that I wish I had more time to stay in Red Rock Canyon. Jon
Wow! Powerful post, my friend. It really is about choices and each moment. Really it’s about being present in the moment. I’m with you–nature and light exercise is a great way to center yourself and get the synapses firing. The picture of the canyon is beautiful! Thanks for sharing.
Thanks, Steve! It is about being present in the moment… and, the right moment, too! Grateful for your presence here. Jon