What Makes You Feel Alive? Making Time for What Matters
Every spring in Northern Michigan, I look forward to getting back out on my mountain bike. I love the climbs, the dirt, and the moment at the top of a hill when I’m breathing hard and wondering why I thought this would be relaxing.
Then I get home tired and glad I went.
What makes you feel that way? Maybe it’s swimming, reading a good book, working on a project, or laughing with friends. Whatever it is, how often do you make time for it?
Mountain biking has taught me something about making time for what matters. The things that refresh me and help me reconnect with God and others deserve a place on my calendar.
“I look up to the mountains—does my help come from there? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth!” — Psalm 121:1–2, NLT
I enjoy being out in God’s creation. This psalm reminds me where my help comes from. A quiet stretch of trail gives me room to pray and pay attention to what I’ve been carrying.
Make Room for What Gives You Energy
One summer, I logged more miles than I ever had in Northern Michigan. The change started with ordinary choices: turning off the TV earlier, getting to bed on time, and making better use of my workday. I also looked for ways to combine things I already cared about. A ride with a friend gave me time outdoors and a chance to catch up.
A hard ride still wears me out. Yet I often come home with more energy for the rest of my life. That’s a good clue that the time was well spent.
Your version may look different. Think back to the last time you came home from something feeling more present and ready to engage with the people you love. How could you make room for more of that?
Ride With Purpose
When I can, I invite a friend to ride with me. Some of our best conversations happen out on the trail or when we stop to catch our breath. We talk about what’s really going on, pray for each other, and follow up on things we’ve shared before.
If I’m riding alone, I often use part of the ride to pray for my family, friends, and ministry. Sometimes I simply thank God for something I’ve been too busy to notice.
You can bring that same intention to a walk, a cup of coffee, or time in the garden. Invite someone you’ve been meaning to catch up with. Or enjoy some quiet and use it to talk with God.
Put One Thing on Your Calendar This Week
- Choose something that refreshes you. Think about what you enjoy and how you feel afterward.
- Give it a time and place. “I’ll walk with a friend after dinner on Thursday” is easier to act on than “I should get outside more.”
- Make room for it. Decide what you can shorten, reschedule, or set aside for that block of time.
Start with whatever fits this week. It might be a long ride. It might be twenty minutes with a book after the kids go to bed.
What makes you feel alive, and when will you make time for it this week? I’d love to hear what refreshes you. Share it in the comments.
Make More Room for What Matters
If your calendar keeps crowding out the relationships and priorities you care about, I can help you look at where your time goes and build a rhythm that fits the life you want to live.
We’ll talk about what you want to make room for and whether coaching is a good fit. Schedule a free coaching consultation.
About Terry Porter
Terry Porter, MA, PCC, is a life, relationship, and leadership coach in Traverse City, Michigan. He brings more than 20 years of pastoral ministry experience and a master’s degree in Executive Coaching and Organizational Consulting from the Townsend Institute to his work. Terry coaches individuals, couples, and leaders in person and online. Learn more about Terry.
