The Beautiful Rush
Recently, my cousin Erik, from Extended Horizons, sent me an article from the Washington Post. The Post played a trick on morning commuters at L’ Enfant Plaza in Washington D.C.
They convinced one of the leading violinists in the world, Joshua Bell, to dress up like a struggling musician and play for people as they rushed to work. After 1,097 people passed by in 43 minutes, the scientific experiment was over and the results were in.
Only a few people stopped at all and listened to the beautiful music. Mr. Bell who usually makes $1000 per minute performing received a mere $32.17 for his public concert.
Would you have stopped?
Busyness is an epidemic. In my trainings, I often ask participants if they work at the computer and work on the phone at the same time? Almost all of them do. How many take a breaks to close there eyes and listen to some tranquil music or just the beauty of everyday sounds? Occasionally a lone ranger will raise their hand.
And why is this? People report over and over again it is because they are too busy. They have more to get done that they can possibly complete. There is not enough time to stop and listen.
But what is the cost?
Is the the busyness you experience at work getting carried over into your personal life? Are you rushing around so much that you don't even know what you may be missing?
Monday Mindfulness.
This week take a few minutes and pay attention to sounds. Listen for a child's laughter, or someone giving a compliment. Really take some time to pay attention to your auditory awareness. You may just find that beautiful notes are being played right there in front of you.
April 16th, 2007 at 8:35 am
Hi Jason,
Quite a story about Mr. Bell. At least he sent something beautiful into the airwaves.
You give a good reminder to slow down at the core and take mini-breaks to really listen.
Thanks, be well,
Stuart Baker
www.consciouscooperation.com
April 16th, 2007 at 9:33 am
Not only can I miss the roses, but sometimes it seems as though the busier I get, the less I get done. Thanks for the reminder, Jason.
Tony
April 16th, 2007 at 9:34 am
There’s a woodpecker that frequents my neighborhood as well as many chirruping birds. When I have my window open, I love listening for them.
I also work on the computer and the phone at the same time because I’m either looking at notes for a teleclass I’m presenting, or I’m taking notes for a client that I’m working with privately.
I liked hearing about the Josh Bell experiment because I’m imagining myself as one of the locals and I’m trying it both ways….speeding past in a hurry and actually taking a break for a couple of minutes and taking the music in.
I can see that I have the potential to do both…and that in my life I’ve tended to be the one who keeps walking. Maybe that’s been my way until now. The next time I see a street performer maybe I’ll hang out and groove for a bit with them.
April 16th, 2007 at 10:03 am
Jason,
Thanks so much for this reminder.
I have come across a fair amount of people who have themselves convinced that they are too busy for any time for themselves or for meditation. They perceive this to mean they have to spend some length of time in the Lotus position saying “om”. When I explain that meditation or taking time out for oneself, can be as simple as just taking a moment to admire a flower, while being fully present in the moment, they are suprised. I believe your example lends light to that fact.
Thank you!
Namaste’
Rev. Christopher
www.bearfoothealing.org
April 16th, 2007 at 10:24 am
Wow! I can relate! Yesterday I played piano for 3 hours at a wedding reception. I played beautifully, but how many people took the time to say anything? - Two! True, it was very noisy with 75 people talking and eating but it is still nice to be acknowledged.
Next time you are touched by a musician’s music, tell them!!
Linda Smith
Piano Artistry
Notes of Celebration
April 16th, 2007 at 10:43 am
I know that slowing down is very difficult for fast paced workers and most will not identify with a need to slow down.
What do you think would have people reflect on slowing down in their workplace?
A. Increased Profits
B. Being More Effective
C. A Personal Crisis
April 16th, 2007 at 2:41 pm
Hi Jason,
Thank you for sending out a reminder. I have been berating myself for having work pile up and still wanting to take time for myself to take a walk along the river watching eagles and hawks soar. I am glad I took the walk. I am also glad I always stop to listen to sidewalk musicians and if I do not give money give them the sign of acknowledgement and appreciation which is a smile.
April 16th, 2007 at 2:43 pm
Great story, Jason.
And you’re right, busyness is epidemic.
I’ve encountered similar experiences both as a writer and as a teacher. If your heart is in the right place, you put your ’stuff’ out there and you know it will come back to you in ways unfathomable.
I’m thinking Mr. Bell’s repayment was the effort itself.