Living in the Moment: Why the Steps Matter More Than the Finish
As-salamu alaykum - I saw a quote that stuck with me: “Life is not in its goal. Life is in its process - in how you experience it within yourself right now.” It’s a nudge for anyone always staring at the finish line, whether that’s a promotion or a dream trip. In a culture that worships milestones, it reminds us to enjoy the messy middle. I’ll break it down with a story, a Gen Z example, and some viewpoints. What do you think - have you ever missed the present chasing the prize? A Short Story Meet Raj, an ambitious engineer in his 30s who wants to be CEO by 40. He plans every step: late nights coding, networking, skipping family if it means progress. He finally gets the promotion - big office, fat bonus - but sitting there he feels empty. He realizes he lost mornings with his child, real conversations with his wife, and the simple pleasure of a quiet cup of tea. Burned out, he takes time off, hikes a nearby trail, and rediscovers joy in the effort: the sweat of the climb, leaves rustling, breathing in time with his steps. No trophy at the summit, just being present. The real achievement turned out to be the moments he’d rushed through. Gen Z Situation We’re experts at postponing happiness - building side hustles while doom-scrolling five-year plans. With job markets shifting and costs rising, there’s a big “manifest your future” energy: skip social time to grind for that income goal, promising you’ll relax once you hit it. But when you do, things can change - algorithms, burnout, life - and the win feels hollow. A friend left law school mid-clerkship to make travel videos; now she edits clips at sunset, chats with viewers, and really values the daily work instead of waiting for some future peace. In our anxious age, focusing on small, present joys - a short walk, a mindful prayer break, cooking with family - can be more sustaining than holding out for the perfect upgrade. How do you catch those small moments while hustling? Different Angles - Psychological: This lines up with research on flow - deep engagement brings lasting satisfaction more than the brief high of reaching a goal. Practicing gratitude and short daily reflections can help rewire expectations and reduce the post-achievement slump. - Philosophical: Many traditions remind us the path matters: a journey isn’t just a means to an end. Of course, critics note that when people face real hardship, goals can be necessary for survival; the balance matters. - Practical: In the gig and creator world, it’s about boundaries. Log off at a reasonable hour, eat with your family, take time for prayer and rest so you actually taste life instead of chasing the next win. So, when have you leaned into the process and it changed things for you? Or does having clear goals keep you grounded? Would love to hear your stories - keep it real and simple.