Why I’m choosing to focus on now.
I remember when I was a kid, I thought a day would take so long to get through and afternoons of playing seemed endless. Summer holidays felt like forever and every year leading up to my next birthday felt so far away.
Fast forward a few years.
Now, I feel that my days fly by as I am stuck in a routine of work, commitments and chores that need to get done.
I feel like I’m just ticking off a checklist, to make sure I’ve done what is needed for the day. Weeks and even months pass and I feel that I haven’t really achieved anything special. Other times, I’m just so caught up on planning too far ahead – Will I be able to get a new job? When can I move out? Where am I going with my life?
I recently read a book – ‘The Power of Now’ by Eckhart Tolle which emphasises the importance on the present moment.
“The more you are focused on time—past and future—the more you miss the Now, the most precious thing there is.”
Thinking too much about the future creates expectations that cause stress, worry and unease. Focusing on the past brings sadness, resentment or regret. None of which are the present.
This opened a new way of thinking for me. I learnt to really appreciate the small things in the present moment, and not get caught up in the busyness of life.
Like really paying attention to my friend at brunch by not checking my phone during the time I have with them. Or taking a moment to appreciate how much my parents do for me. Or even how beautiful the day is outside.
“As soon as you honour the present moment, all unhappiness and struggle dissolve, and life begins to flow with joy and ease.”
These little moments help me appreciate the time, talents and treasures that I have now and help me slow down. Its easy to get caught up in the flow of routine and think that time has been lost, so don’t forget to set time aside for yourself too.
We are almost halfway through 2018.
How would you like to spend the rest of the year?
Reset your thinking and take the time to remind yourself to enjoy the present moment and value those in your life.
Here is where you can read more about Eckhart Tolle’s piece.
https://www.bookdepository.com/Power-Now-Eckhart-Tolle/9780340733509
Written by Yoana Soegiharto.
Especially curated for you: Stop, Reset, Go