This morning I found myself sitting in my car, observing the outside world for a few short moments. Just sitting there; a short pitstop before rushing off to yet another day filled with never ending tasks. Numerous people passed by, hasting away on their own mission. Some rushing, obviously late, with a flickering gaze while fumbling with their their car keys or computerbags. Others in total harmonie, taking the time to check their mobile, fix their hair and plugging their headphones while tuning in to today’s soundtrack.
As I was walking through the car park, I noticed a small car trying to navigate into an open space between the narrow lines. The first attempt was a more or less success, barely within the borders. Not perfect, but well within the acceptable. To my surprise, the young driver decided that the result could be better. The second attempt was perfect; a bullseye of parking! The driver, in total harmonie, put on some music and strolled off to meet the world.
While continuing my walk, I started to notice the amount of people who had failed at their first attempt of parking, but still decided to accept the result. A total failure in some instances. To my surprise, i concluded that almost a third of the cars was all over the designated space, leaving the spot next to them near useless.
I couldn’t help wondering if there was a connection between the parking and the amount of the stress in the driver’s morning. Is it possible to draw a conclusion between stress and parking skills? Probably not. But can how you start your day set traces in the rest of your day? Most likely. We all know the difference between a good and a bad start. Falling behind before the first hurdle leaves you playing catch-up from your first steps of the day until bedtime.
I’ve never liked mornings. No matter if the clock is 06.00 or 10.00, I outerly dislike getting out of bed. I’ve tried every morning routine out there; training, reflection, yoga or a fantasti breakfast. Nothing can stop me from hitting that snooze button until I am hopelessly late. And everytime I confess my shortcomings, someone jumps in with the same advice; “you need to get to bed earlier”. Surely a fantastic advice, if it hadn’t been for the fact that this would leave me staring at the ceiling for a few hours.
I started to wonder how my own parking was that morning. The agony of not knowing, left me with no choice but to return to my car and check. To my disbelief, it was all over the place. Well placed on top of the yellow line on the side with enough space for half an extra car at the back. My mental state that morning? Stressed, thinking about everything on the ever expanding to-do list. I got back into my care and made a second attempt. Bullseye.
I decided to go for a coffee before heading to the office. I ordered my favourite drink, sat down and let my mind wander.
Tomorrow I’ll get a better start.
I hope.