One of the fantastic lessons from Alice in Wonderland: “You couldn’t have it if you did want it. The rule is, jam to-morrow and jam yesterday – but never jam to-day.”
This whimsical yet profound exchange between Alice and the White Queen in Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland” highlights a common human tendency: The postponement of happiness and fulfillment. All in anticipation of a future that may never arrive. We get caught up in the allure of “jam tomorrow”. Always seeking, striving, and hoping for a better version of ourselves or a more ideal situation, while overlooking the potential for joy and contentment in the present moment.
This “jam tomorrow” mentality can be particularly pervasive in the world of leadership. We tell ourselves:
- “When I finally get that promotion, then I’ll be happy.”
- “When I achieve that next goal, then I’ll feel successful.”
- “When I have more time, then I’ll focus on my well-being.”
We fall into the trap of believing that happiness, fulfillment, and success lie somewhere in the future, just beyond the horizon of our current circumstances. We become so fixated on what we lack, on what we need to achieve, that we lose sight of the abundance and potential that already exists within us and around us.
The Never-Ending Pursuit
This pursuit of “jam tomorrow” can become a never-ending cycle. We achieve one goal, only to set our sights on another, constantly chasing an elusive future that always seems just out of reach. We read self-improvement books, attend workshops, and listen to podcasts, hoping to find the magic formula for happiness and success. But the truth is, no external solution can truly fulfill us if we’re not willing to embrace the present moment and recognize the inherent value of our own being.
The Illusion of the Horizon
The “jam tomorrow” mentality is like chasing a horizon. No matter how far you sail, the horizon always remains just out of reach. It’s an illusion, a mirage that keeps us perpetually striving, never truly arriving.
The Power of the Present Moment
But what if the “jam” we’re seeking is not in the future, but right here, right now? What if the key to happiness, fulfillment, and success lies not in achieving something more, but in recognizing and appreciating what we already have?
This is not to say that we shouldn’t set goals or strive for improvement. But it’s about finding a balance, a way to pursue our goals with intention and focus while also embracing the present moment and appreciating the journey itself.
The Invitation
So, I invite you to step off the “jam tomorrow” treadmill and explore the richness of the present moment. Ask yourself:
- What am I grateful for today?
- What brings me joy and fulfillment in this moment?
- How can I connect with my authentic self and express my unique gifts in the world?
By shifting your focus from the future to the present, you can break free from the cycle of striving and discover a deeper sense of peace, joy, and purpose. You can create a life where “jam today” is not a whimsical fantasy, but a lived reality.
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