Chasing the Sun: Yearning to Feel Alive

Today, I had the most magical evening. I went swimming with my girlfriend among softly crashing waves, a warm summer breeze ruffling our hair, set against a picturesque backdrop of squeaky white sand and an sky animated with vibrant brush strokes of orange and pink. With a warm summer breeze. It’s in these moments that I feel most alive, and I would like to cultivate more of them.

You’ve probably heard of an 80/20 analysis before. In essence, it prompts us to ask ourselves the question: from what small collection (~20%) of inputs, do the overwhelming majority (~80%) of desired outputs arise?

It is a simple theory with well documented applications which I have applied widely in my study, business, and personal life. But today, it struck me that this pattern is also apparent on a very day-to-day experiential level. If I ask myself which 20% of each day accounts for 80% of the most enjoyable and fulfilling moments, invariably, my answer lies in the bookends of a day—particularly sunrise and sunset. Of course, this is a generalisation to some degree. But I do think there is real merit to this pattern, at least in my life.

The days in which I wake up early enough to watch the sun rise feel tangibly more complete. A day spent outside watching the sunset, alone or with friends, preoccupied or not, is usually a day I thoroughly enjoy.

So, I would like to conciously prioritise this time.

I want to start a little series called Chasing the Sun. It’s a straightforward idea. I would like to make an effort to watch the sun rise and fall every day, whilst in nature, and catalogue those moments here. That’s all!