We’ve all done it. We’ve all said something to the effect of “I’ll be happy when I finally graduate, get that promotion, go on vacation, they call my number at the DMV, I finally get married, I lose the weight,” etc. Though this though process is an all too common one, it’s important that we realize we’re becoming a society that is so far removed from the present that we are rarely ever in the moment.
Just look around. How many groups of people do you notice who are so engrossed in their phones, IPADS and laptops that they might as well be by themselves? I’ve even seen couples at romantic dinners who barely look up from their phones long enough to drink their fancy wine and eat their candlelit meal- let alone enjoy each others’ company! In all honesty, I’m as guilty of this as anyone, but it’s worth noting because such habits not only diminish our bond with others- they can rob us of our ability to get to know ourselves on a deeper and more meaningful level. You see, today, right now, is a gift- one that we aren’t promised again.
There’s a Carly Simon song called “Anticipation.” It has the line “These are the good old days.” Ironically, I never really appreciated the song when I was younger, but this lyric is so profound! Think about it, because if we’re lucky enough to have many more years, we may likely look back and think of the current moment as “the good old days.” I realize that given the current state of things that might be a hard sell, but it’s true.
Please know, I’m not saying don’t look forward to the future. By all means, set goals and dream big for plans and events that lie ahead. Just know that today/right now holds all the power. Also, what better incentive to rise above crap that happened yesterday or weeks/months ago!
Try and realize the beauty and the gift of this very moment. Remind yourself of all the reasons you have to be happy and grateful right now. It’s very easy to take today for granted in hopes that tomorrow, next month, next year will surely be better. The tragic outcome of not catching ourselves and pivoting, is that we inevitably wish our lives away; and as much as technology has enriched our world, it has also made this outcome easier by transporting us to destinations that are elsewhere.
Some simple tips for achieving being in the moment are meditation and/or breathing techniques. Jason Stephenson guided meditations and music only videos have helped me greatly, as well as Abraham Hicks videos. If I’m really stressed or just need to snap back, I’ll try breathing in for four seconds, holding for two and then breathing out for four seconds- then repeat until I feel more calm and in my body. Yoga and Qigong can be good for this purpose as well, since they are largely considered to be forms of meditation through movement. Whatever method/modality you choose is is up to you (and there are many). Just know that the most effective techniques are the ones we do consistently and that allow us to reap their benefits.
If you are reading this and are even attempting to be “in the moment” I applaud you. This mindfulness will make you a better listener, friend, companion and steward of your own well-being:) I promise it will change your life!