I know there is a saying that goes something like this; “Once is a mistake, twice is stupidity”, so I’m a bit embarrassed to admit this.
Twice this week, not once, I went to an ATM to take out money – only I forgot to get the money. I walked away believing I had completed a task only to discover later when I opened my wallet that it was bare. Somebody walking past the ANZ ATM must have thought it was their lucky day.
The first time I did it I forgave myself. The second time I beat myself up. I wondered if I have some early onset neurological disorder. I got angry at myself, disappointed, I was embarrassed. I may sometimes find the TV remote control challenging (much to the eye roll of my kids when I try to use voice activation) but I do know how an ATM machine works.
After thinking about my odd behaviour I realised I’m forever in a state of multi-tasking, withdrawing money while working out if we need milk, do I have time to walk the dog before work, did I wash that shirt, what exactly did that email mean and I’ve stopped single tasking. I’ve stopped being present, being mindful of the moment.
It was the kick in the pants I needed. It’s time to change a few bad habits I’ve fallen into. I’m lucky it was money that gave me a shove rather than something where the consequences were much more permanent and traumatic.
I’m trying to make myself stay on task and then move to the next one. I’ve downloaded a mindfulness App (I swear I will use it soon).
When I’m talking to my kids or friends I’m trying to really listen to what they are saying – in that moment. Sounds pretty obvious, but I need to refresh my listening skills.
I know so many people do this but I’m also joining the digital detox club – as a casual member. When I get home from work, I’m leaving my phone in a different room from whatever room I am in – it distracts me.
My husband was lovely when I told him about my ATM walk aways. I did lay on my fear of having some medical issue pretty thick though to deflect from money being, literally, lost.
“You don’t need to see a doctor,” he said.
“Just slow down and take the money out – and next time give me a call and I’ll talk you through how an ATM works.”
May you all know how to use an ATM properly and if you don’t give me a call and I’ll talk you through it too.
Jackie xx
Top Comments
Call the bank. The money is often contracted back into the atm if not taken out within a certain amount of timez ( hopefully no one else got to it in time )