We have all heard it plenty of times before “you should always be present in the moment” but why?
More and more it is becoming harder to follow this motion, it’s not easy. There’s always something that pops up that we need to prepare for, or feel as if we do. If we aren’t worrying about what we have coming up, we are looking back at the past. This may be because all we seem to do is post everything straight on to social media; the good, the bad and the ugly. It’s something we really should try to adapt to more, working through the things that are happening right now rather than letting the anxiety of the future or any regret of the past rule over us. Yes, it’s normal for it to happen sometimes but we shouldn’t let it have a hold over us.
We more often than not are finding ourselves just managing. This situation for a majority of people has just become so normal, but why is that the case? Why is it becoming so increasingly harder to focus on the now, on the present?
So, what can you do to help be a little more present and be more balanced with how you think:
Reflect on your past in small doses
It’s good to be able to look back at your previous experiences and see what you have learnt since then. Another beneficial reason is to use it as a lesson to make sure you don’t make the same mistake again. It may even give you the missing piece you need to help yourself or a friend in a similar situation. It is just learning how to reign in your thoughts so you do not end up going down the rabbit hole.
Plan ahead in small doses
Similar to above, you do not want to start thinking too deeply about your future as you will never truly know what it holds for you. Look at your week ahead and the plans you have set in stone in your calendar, plan for them. You do not need to create anxiety that is not needed, this will only work against you. Once you are able to create the perfect formula for balance you will notice the difference in how you feel and how you are thinking.
Stay focused
Staying focused helps to keep you in the moment as you are focusing on what you need to be doing right now. Be mindful, you may even find that something like meditation can help you keep you present. The importance of this point is to not allow yourself to get swept up in thinking about the past or future. Write lists for the tasks at hand for the day, break them up into what is urgent and what isn’t. This will help you to determine what you should apply your attention to, and how you should focus for the day.
As humans we are very much obsessive in such a way that is damaging to our health if we are not careful, putting these small steps in place can help. They may not be the most complex but not everything has to be for it to work effectively.
One of the aims of staying present is mindfulness. Mindfulness is a key factor in bringing balance to your thoughts, often creating a positive impact on our health too.
It’s hard to say what the exact right balance is, as it will be different for everyone, but you’ll know you’ve hit it when you begin to notice you are worrying less, experiencing less stress, and find yourself focusing on what needs to be done now, in the present.
“If it’s out of your hands, it deserves freedom from your mind too.” – Ivan Nuru