What is the Leeway in My Life?

We use the word "leeway" in many ways.
It can be about enough time, enough money, or enough space.

Actually, I like to see the time leeway in movies and Netflix shows in which cooking is the theme.
For example, I love to watch Kagome Diner, Kiyo in Kyoto, Midnight Diner, etc.
I admire that use of leeway.

In Kiyo in Kyoto, which I watched the other day, in order to make perfect udon noodles for her friend who had caught a cold, Kiyo went to buy abura-age (deep-fried tofu), went to a traditional bonito and kombu shops to make soup stock, and slowly and carefully made broth with them. Finally, she made a flawless tasty udon noodle with Kujo leeks and ginger.

Watching that making process of udon, I was like, "Oh, this is really nice."

My life, on the other hand...
Ten minutes is enough time to make udon. Of course, I use instant broth.

Why is there so much difference between Kiyo's life and my real life?

I tell myself that I am too busy to make broth, but if I have time to watch Netflix or scroll on my phone, maybe I have time to make broth.

Why can't I do that?!  Now, I'm wondering if I just believe I'm busy but don’t know what I should be doing.

When I came up with this idea, I felt like I was taking on some burdens that no one particularly expected me to carry as well.

For example, I set a certain goal to achieve something. Next, I do this and that every day according to my plan.
Sometimes it gets hard to do, but I can't help it because this is a goal I should achieve.
Then I get busy and need some leeway with cooking, so I use a shortcut.
What's wrong with my mental attitude?

If it's too hard, why don't I just quit?
After all, it's my own decision.
Nobody forced me to do this.

Perhaps the leeway is created from enjoying the process rather than seeking the result.
Concentrate on what is in front of you and take your time to enjoy the journey.

Now, I know setting priorities is essential, and giving up something else is never bad.
There's only so much you can do in life.

As long as we live in a society, there are certain things we have to deal with.
But it's okay to make room and have leeway for yourself.
If the process is worth it, the results will naturally follow.

This is how I'm now thinking about my life.

My thanks to Sharon for help with the editing.