How often do you catch yourself wondering, “Where did all the time go?” It’s been over a decade since I first wrote this post in 2010, and reflecting on the past often brings a mix of joy and disbelief. It’s hard to believe that it’s been 20 years since the heyday of Pearl Jam and the era of mullets. It seems like just yesterday, yet so much has happened since then.
Some people refer to the recent decade as a “lost decade” due to the stagnant returns in the stock market, but I see it differently. If you compare your current situation to where you were ten years ago, you’ll likely see significant progress. Whether it’s finishing your education, starting a business, or finding a partner, you’ve probably come a long way.
We always have less time ahead of us than we did yesterday. I often break down my life into 5 to 10-year segments to plan and evaluate my progress. For example, I wonder if the seed I plant today will blossom in five years, or if the relationships I build in business school will benefit me a decade down the line. I also think about mastering a new guitar song each month; could I play six albums’ worth of songs in five years?
The key is to start now and stay consistent. Ignore the short-term setbacks and focus on long-term goals. By doing a little every day, you’ll avoid the regret of time slipping by unnoticed. Eventually, though, we all run out of time, and the goal is to look back with satisfaction at all we’ve achieved.
In a related note, if “Name” by The Goo Goo Dolls were released today, I bet it would still be a hit. This ties into the idea of creating something timeless. You might have heard my attempt to cover this song with my guitar, Mags. It’s the first of ten songs I plan to record—not quitting my day job, though, but thanks to Shane Mac for the mic recommendation and the motivation to practice!
If you’re worried about time slipping away without living fully, start making the most of each day now. Explore more, create more, and don’t be held back by fears of failure or judgment.
For those in creative fields like music or art, overcoming the fear of performing is crucial. Just get out there and do it, and you might find that time seems to slow down a bit when you’re fully engaged and enjoying what you’re doing.
