"They lose the day in expectation of the night, and the night in fear of the dawn." -Seneca

When we go through our day begrudging the routine, we're not serving our higher purpose. We lose the meaning and vitality of a life we're capable of!

Living in expectation of the night will mean something different to each person. Your interpretation may include looking forward to a drink, hanging out with friends, or binge-watching a TV show. Your expectation is to relax and disconnect, to create space.

Meanwhile, in the day, you're working at something causing you stress or pain, and you desire to numb yourself. If not currently, then at some point, you've felt this.

We disguise our vices in words like "relaxation" and "self-care." But they aren't always so. It takes a wise person to recognize their escapes for what they are.

In the night, after you've indulged in your relaxation routines, you "fear the dawn." You dread waking up to face the day and start all over again. Is it following someone else's rules and expectations? Have you lost your joy?

Regardless, you repeat the cycle.

Seneca tells us that we lose our day when we live this way.

What does that mean to "lose your day"?

Our day is our present moment. It's all we truly have. When we spend our moments thinking, planning, and living in the future, we lose opportunities given to us now.

Instead of dread and mindless action, learn to get present and pay attention. Be the watcher of your thoughts. Catch the moments when you're drifting off. You could be losing an opportunity to positively impact the people around you.

What do you value? What are your top virtues?

If you aren't sure, you can start there. Explore the answers to those questions. If you are present and conscious of how you show up when you interact, you're given the gift of connection with others.

You have so much to offer and teach and to learn from others. If you get lost in the routines, the paperwork, & simple actions as your thoughts drift into expectation, you lose your day. You lose the opportunity.

Be present to feel deeply, connect authentically, and practice your purpose (your virtues).

Your Journal Prompts for this week:

1. How do I "lose my day in expectation of night"? Do these things feed my virtues or my vices?

2. In what ways do I fear dawn? What does this fear tell me about my life and my choices?

3. What is one way I can practice being present in my day / my moments? What can I expect to feel, do, and accomplish?

Minimalist Weekly Challenge:

• Clean out old spices, expired cans, packaged foods, and any old leftovers in your refrigerator.

Time to complete: Less than 30 minutes.

It's okay to eliminate old, expired foods. This action will help you feel both productive and healthier. You're making room for good nutrition and better choices.

With Vitality + Purpose + Love,

Kourt @ The Minimalist Stoic

"They lose the day in expectation of the night, and the night in fear of the dawn." -Seneca