We’re often distracted by a number of things these days, whether it’s the constant notifications on our smartphones, the sound of the alarm across the street or the mental distraction of the noise inside our heads. When do we truly immerse ourselves in what we are doing in the present moment and fully enjoy the experience and just be?

What does it mean to truly focus on the task or experience at hand? What does it mean to “live in the present”? How do we stop ourselves from being torn between the past and the future and live in the now?

First of all let’s identify some of the reasons that might be leading us off track.

We are in constant comparison

In this day and age, our minds are in constant comparison. It is difficult to just cherish what we have or how we feel without comparison. Rest your mind for a few moments each day to just be grateful and absorb all the goodness in your lives. You will come to realise that you already have everything that you need and there’s no longer need for constant comparison or competition.

We are attached to time

We utilise time as a means to structure our day and our lives. More often than not we are pulled backwards and forwards according to our concept of time and what needs to be achieved in a certain period. When we truly focus on something, we lose track of time and usually are able to achieve more.

We are constantly attached to the past and planning for the future

By constantly thinking of the past, we relive the moments that we experienced at that time. We take ourselves away from living presently, and are robbed of past events. Once we know what we need to learn from the past, we should let it go and the same applies for the other side of the spectrum where we are constantly planning for the future and not focusing on the present. That’s not to say that we shouldn’t plan for our future, but there is a time and place for everything.

By living in the past and visualising events that have already happened, you lose peace of mind. Nothing is also gained by worrying about the future. In contrast, focusing on the present moment, on what is happening or what you’re doing at that moment, frees you of unnecessary burden and unpleasant thoughts and experiences, thereby bringing peace into your mind.

When we give our utmost attention to the present moment, we are living fully and that’s what it means to truly live.

Give the above tips a go and see if you notice any changes to your life. Let us know how you go and comment below. We would love to hear from you!

References:

• Sasson, Remez. “A Conversation On Living In The Present”. Successconsciousness.com. N.p., 2017. Web. 14 Feb. 2017.