Are we losing our ability to mindfully observe?
When was the last time we genuinely observed our surroundings?
Probably the time when we weren’t busy scrolling on our phone. And when was that? Definitely a long time ago.
The time when we still had social media and we still loved to scroll but that was only a small part of our life. We were then “using” those platforms instead being “used” by them. For most people, it is the pre- pandemic time.
Suddenly, the world is too much for us now. We constantly feel low, we barely feel positive energy, we forgot how little things made us happy and we lost the sense of gratefulness.
We lost connection with the world, yet here we exist.
The outside world didn’t change much but our insides have changed. The sun still rises in the east, roads are still busy, nature is still calm and beautiful.
Then why do we suddenly feel so exhausted with everything? Why do we feel like giving up even though we didn’t start anything?
One answer might be- “The mental fatigue caused by the mindless scrolling.” But there’s more to it.
Get Afnanraies’s stories in your inbox
Join Medium for free to get updates from this writer.
The time when people didn’t have smart phones with them, they often used to find joy in solitude.
Whether standing in long lines, waiting for a train, or stuck in the traffic — they were completely alone. They had no companions. No phone, no books, no distractions; just them and their thoughts.
These were the moments when they were able to engage in mindful observations.
They would look at the simple things like the clouds on the sky, people that would be passing by, a couple having a quality time or employees rushing to their offices. These are daily occurrences.
But a man left alone with thoughts would find these deeply meaningful. He would get the time to realize how beautiful the world is and how he should be grateful for being alive. He might get nostalgic as well.
Even though he was doing nothing but his mind was active. Even without any source of entertainment, he wouldn’t get bored. He was rather able to enjoy the present without anxiety, toxic ness or competitiveness. By the time he got back to work, he felt fresh and motivated.
But now that space for solitude has vanished. The second we find a break, we reach out for our phones. We scroll without letting our minds think. We stay focused on the screens so much so that we forget the present.
We don’t observe anymore, we only consume what is shown on our screens. We get the feeling of pleasure but our minds feel tired.
Consequently, we are always tired and demotivated. We are tired of us and over all, tired of our life.
In reality, it is just the result of the choices we make.
The time we spend doing nothing- that’s when our scattered thoughts find their destiny. That’s when we realize who we are and how strong our minds and focus can be. This very capability of observation is what has distinguished us from other creatures.
