To live in the present moment, you must free yourself from the past and the future. Stop thinking of how things were and how things are going to be. Instead, focus on what is happening right now.
Living in the present moment means appreciating everything that you have right now and being thankful for it. You notice what is happening around you and actively participate in the experience. You are in tune with the moment.
You are able to cherish each day and its uniqueness. You accept the good and the bad and the fact that you cannot change certain things. Thus, you find your life more enriching when you live in the present moment.
How Do You Live In The Present Moment?
To live in the present moment requires you to fully concentrate on what is happening right now. You have to give your complete attention to the task at hand. Following the steps given below can make it easier to start living in the present :
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Be attentive
- Be thankful for what you have
- Appreciate the people in your life
- Focus on one task at a time
- Accept things/situations that you cannot change
- Try meditating and deep breathing
Why Is It Important To Live In The Present Moment?
Most often, we are distracted by the past or worried about the future. We tend to stress past mistakes and failures. We try to think ahead and fantasize about what the future holds in store for us.
By doing so, we fail to value what is currently taking place. We are always living in a different time. When you live in the present, you are in control of what is happening right now.
You are able to adjust yourself and work with a purpose. You can ensure that you gain satisfaction in whatever you are doing at the moment. You can focus your energy on one simple task. You are able to find connectedness and a sense of positivity at the moment.
Your life becomes simpler and more enriching as you treasure the present time. You feel more at peace, and there is a sense of positivity in your outlook.
Why Is It So Hard To Be In The Present Moment?
We are always thinking and planning other things instead of solely concentrating on the present moment. You are either brooding on the past or else pondering about the future. We are constantly being distracted by external forces.
Our mind is not used to being still. That is why even when we are doing some activity, our thoughts tend to wander onto other matters. We are constantly in a state of motion with our thoughts.
We are always busy trying to accomplish tasks and multitask. It is extremely difficult to quieten your thoughts and be attentive to the present moment.
What Should You Avoid Doing?
To live in the present is not easy. We are constantly on the move in leading busy lives. Technology compels us to always think and plan ahead.
We need to learn how to face the present and manage our life accordingly. At first, this will not be easy, but there are a few guidelines you can follow. They are :
- Keep your phone/tablet away from you
- Do not multitask
- Do not think of past situations
- Stop overthinking your every move
How Long Does It Take To Learn Living In The Present?
Learning to live in the present can be achieved in small steps. It also helps if you can practice meditating. This encourages you to be aware of yourself and your surroundings.
You must first learn to pay attention to the little things. Focus on the smell, the sights, the sounds, and the feelings, as you do a task. You need to calm your mind and only think of the present.
The more you practice being mindful and being present, the easier it will become. It all depends on the individual and how much effort you are willing to put in.
Final Thoughts on What Does It Mean To Live In The Present Moment
Your life is precious, and you should live it to the fullest. Worrying about the past will only hold you back, and thinking about the future will only make you anxious. You should live for the day and make each second count.
Learn to appreciate the life you have and be grateful for everything in it. Try to balance your past and future and accept whatever is happening right now.
Living in the present will bring you fulfillment and make your life more wholesome. You will treasure each moment and make the most of it.