fast-paced life; right? We often picture those bustling cities with high-rise buildings such as New York, where everyone’s always in a rush. But hey, it’s not just NYC; you find this kind of frenzy in cities around the world, including our own — be it Lahore or Karachi, or even Islamabad (just this one time, though).

But hold on, I’m not here to bash the fast life. I’ve had my fair share of that crazy hustle, where time just slips away like sand through your fingers.

Recently, I made an interesting change in my life. I started driving in the middle lane, literally. Now, you might think it’s just a metaphor, but it’s got its own unique vibe.

There is something about not rushing headlong towards your goals or what you think your life should be. The fast life keeps you laser-focused on your objectives, like a hawk swooping down on its prey. But you know what? You don’t have to be so obsessed with your destination that you forget to enjoy the journey, as clichéd as that might sound.

That’s the epiphany I had when I decided to live life in the middle lane. There’s this emotion we often forget about — the joy of being right there at the moment. I felt it, smack in the middle of the road.

Recently, I made an interesting change in my life. I started driving in the middle lane, literally. Now, you might think it’s just a metaphor, but it’s got its own unique vibe. There is something about not rushing headlong towards your goals or what you think your life should be. 

Driving in the middle lane made me realise something big. I wasn’t caught up any longer in that mad race to be the first or the fastest. I was fine with maintaining a steady pace, not too slow, not too fast. What’s more, the world seemed to move in a cool, harmonious rhythm. Time seemed to slow down, just for me.

And my mindset totally shifted. In the fast lane, I was always anxious about missing out and chasing the next big thing. But here I started appreciating what I already have. It’s not always about wanting more; it’s about cherishing what’s here and now.

Don’t get me wrong; I haven’t permanently parked myself in the middle lane. Life is about finding balance. Every now and then, you’ve got to jump into the fast lane to achieve your goals and push your limits. The middle lane reminds us that we can always return to the centre when we need to.

Life in the middle lane has its perks. It’s like you’re savouring the journey, not just racing towards the finish line. So, the next time you stop at a red light, pause your mind, and stay in the present; at least till the light turns green again.

The writer is an ex-serviceman and a freelancer. He can be reached at shaafayzia@gmail.com