It’s easy to focus on all the details of our busy life. The errands we run, the work we do, the people we meet, the things we do for others, the things we do for fun, and occasionally thinking about what’s going on in the world around us.
But, what about when things get quiet? When we listen only to our own thoughts.
Getting quiet can be scary. What’s in there? What’s missing? Where are you going? Do you recognize yourself? Do you like the person you’ve become? What’s important? What do you want from your life?
We can talk ourselves out of just about anything. That includes getting quiet. Here’s a short list, in no particular order, of ways to create some space for quiet time in your (too busy) life:
- Turn off the radio (and your cell phone) when you drive.
- Purposely wake up about 20-30 minutes earlier than usual…there’s your extra time for quiet.
- The next time you’re clicking around the TV channels, click the off button instead.
- Take a walk, a run, or a hike…without your cell phone.
How should you spend your quiet time? You decide. It’s your time. Meditate, read inspirational quotes, pray, or sit in silence and give your brain some time to slow down. It may seem a bit awkward at first, but that will pass as you get to know yourself better.
Get quiet. Listen to your thoughts. You might be surprised by what you hear.
Encouragement is Personal 
I spent the summer hiking almost every weekday and was amazed at the percentage of people I saw with headphones on. I on the other hand did as you say, experience the silence and sounds of nature. Each step was like meditation.