I sat down at the computer and asked God to help me with this blog, as I always do. Then, a thought of the T20 Cricket World Cup intruded. I opened the stream on my tablet. Australia was well on its way to victory against Oman.

Where was I? Oh yes, the blog.

An idea started to form, but then I remembered the flight tickets I tried to buy earlier. I had been distracted then, too. I finished the booking and finally returned to the screen. I was about to type the first sentence when Treble, our dachshund, let out the signature whine that gave him his name. I realized I still had to feed the dogs, fill the water bowl, and give Heidi, our Pomeranian, her medicine.

Now, back to the blog. I don’t have much time, and my thoughts are jumping. I forced myself to focus, put on some “sleepy jazz” to calm the mental noise, and tried again.

Two weeks ago, I started reading a physical hardcover book called A Minute to Think by Juliet Funt. It explores the high price we pay for our frantic lives. We cannot bring our best to anything because we are simply too busy. The concept of creating “white space” between meetings is lovely, but I haven’t had the time to get past the introduction. I clearly need the message of that book.

We are so distracted that we need distractions from our distractions. I find myself watching an episode of The Flash while playing a game on my phone and stretching my sore legs—all at the same time. Then I wonder why I am constantly tired and scattered. Other nights, I fall into the rabbit hole of social media reels, only to emerge much later than I intended to go to bed. We think we are relaxing, but these habits only leave us more exhausted and negative.

Last week, my eldest daughter told me about another book: The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer. I immediately bought the audiobook. Since I can listen while I ride my bicycle to work, wash dishes, or clean the house, I am making great progress. This book is hitting the nail on the head. We complain about busyness, yet we wear it like a status symbol. We say to the world, “See how busy I am? I must be important. I must be valuable to my company, my friends, and my family.”

But we have to quiet down and look to Jesus. He said, “Come to me, all who are tired and weary, and I will give you rest.” He practiced regular prayer in lonely places. He was never in a hurry. He never seemed “busy.” Yet, He is the most influential person to ever live. He was also the most joyful, peaceful, and loving.

We need to learn from Him and follow Him. Comer points out that we should not only listen to His words but also copy His lifestyle. That means seeking out quiet places for solitude with God, then staying in contact with Him throughout the day.

I have found that when I pray for a moment before a meeting—remembering that God is there to help me—I have more wisdom, patience, and love. This is what I need for every moment. He takes away my anxiety and helps me see life in the proper perspective.