A relationship we often forget about is our relationship with time. Most of us view time as a limited resource - that is, we have a finite amount of time in our body and on this earth. When time is framed as a resource, it can generate scarcity based thinking.

The resource based frame applies pressure to get things done because of limited time. We feel pressured to get the most out of our experiences and day because we’ll never get that time back. This type of framing creates anxiety and generally a poor relationship with time. It feels like a constant battle against time to “beat the clock” or “not waste precious time.”

How can we have a healthier relationship with time? A relationship that feels like we have an abundance of time? Create a power frame with time. Drop the idea that time is a resource and replace it with a frame that supports a healthy relationship with time.

One of my favorite frames to relate with time is viewing time as an infinite flow of life. This frame suggests that time has no beginning and no end - all we have is the present moment. While our bodies die, our soul or consciousness lives on manifesting into different forms along the infinite space time continuum. I like to imagine that I’m a river, and I just flow and keep flowing.

The “time is infinite” frame makes it difficult to have anxiety. I find myself merging into the present moment and flow of life. Even when circumstances or people put pressure on me, I feel an abundant amount of time to fulfill a task or obligation. The action is direct, but also effortless and in a flow state.

Only when I slip into the frame of “time as a resource” do I feel like I’m expending my life energy and can’t get it back; therefore, I better spend my time wisely. Time as a resource reminds me of the song called, “Fly Like an Eagle.” You know how it goes: “time keeps on slippin’, slippin’, slippin’ into the future.”

What kind of relationship do you have with time? Do you view time as a resource? Are you on a warpath of getting things done in hopes of relaxing later? Your emotional state will indicate how you relate to time. If the emotion is bored, irritable, or restless, time is probably a resource for you. If the emotion is calm, centered, and trusting, you’re in a coherent state with time.

How does your life change when you view time through the lens of an infinite flow of life?