A simple trick to breaking away from that pesky need for "more"

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Today’s intention is:

To return.

Return to a good idea, good friend, or good book. There’s still gold there. You just forgot about it.

Walking out of Philz coffee, I spot a chair overlooking Huntington Pier.

The sun shines bright and the recent heatwave warms the seat.

I put in my pods then swipe through Sam Harris’ Waking Up app. The app provides 10 and 20 minute daily meditations. I use it every day.

It also sports a library of lessons and conversations exploring theories behind mindfulness and related ideas. Last week, Sam uploaded 200 hours of Alan Watts audio (old recordings of the famous philosopher discussing Zen, Taoism, myth, religion, etc.)

It presents a nearly endless amount of information about mindfulness. 

Swiping through each section, I wonder whether I’ll ever finish it all.

I click “Fundamentals” (basics on using the app and the benefits of meditation).

I listened to the section months ago but give it a second play sitting with my coffee, staring out at the mighty Pacific.

There’s something about hearing the words this time around that strikes me. I remember why I committed to the practice. I listen as an experienced meditator, a different person.

I listen with keener ears.

For a moment, I feel like I get a nudge toward “presence”.

Reviewing familiar content can do that. We find kernels of information that land differently. We break away from our pesky obsession with “more”.

Whether it’s television, books, food, or relationship advice, we can’t get enough. While it’s obvious we shouldn’t feast on unlimited cheeseburgers, devouring knowledge can be problematic too.

This past year I’ve read more books and listened to more material than any other in my life.

Good things, right?

Sure. But that sneaky need for “more” can get its claws in me. And when it does, I feel anxious, like I’m falling behind or something.

I’m not falling behind and neither are you.

Rereading the introduction to a favorite book helps. Listening to a past podcast does too.

See with seasoned eyes. Listen with keener ears.

Go back to basics.

You’ll be surprised how another round lands.

Until next week,

Don’t wait. Start small. Learn as you go.

🙏🧡🤘

Feeling extra intentional? Listen to the Student of Intention Podcast on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.