Most wish they could be more present in life because it allows us to connect better with those we love and enjoy. The gentle reminders below will help achieve being present in the moment. Remember, being present is not something you can perfect, but a daily practice we maintain. Being more present is something we can return to as often as needed. Once you start to prioritize presence, you will realize you are less distracted overall and that showing up for life becomes more natural. Read on to learn how to gently remind yourself to stay present.
It is common for most of us to want to know what is next or what will happen soon. This could be the next appointment, meeting, project, or next to be checked off the to-do list. Would it really be so bad if we built more time and attention into the moment to simply enjoy? This may limit the number of “next” things we get to experience, but those that we do will be much more enjoyable. It can feel amazing to have a few extra minutes take a nap, breathe, or just laugh and reflect with nothing else on the schedule. This leads right into the next tip of removing the things from your life that keep you from truly enjoying it. When the stuff is gone, it is easier to show up in the moment.
Make sure you take some time to spend life in the way you want. This may seem obvious, but we often forget because we are busy or distracted. We do the things we should and must, even all on our to-do lists, but forget that we are choosing to spend time in this way. Instead, we need to make time to do what we actually enjoy in the way we want to spend our life. If you want a real connection in life and truly honest answers, we must learn to listen to our heart and stay away from our phones. Technology is amazing, but it can take us out of the moment and set us aside from the life that is happening in front of us. So, take time to check in with what is in your heart and get to know yourself.
It is our right as a human to protect our time and energy without guilt, apology, or even explanation. Your life is your own, live it as you see fit. Sadly, when most of us do get free time, we spend it trying to get ahead or playing catch-up on those projects we put aside. This means it is not really free time, we just happen to have a gap in a busy schedule. Learn to use your free time to experience being free. Underneath all of our expectations and activities, all the chaos and busyness, is our life. Take time to get back to the simplicity of things. These reminders may be simple, but they will help you eliminate distraction and remain in the present. We are only guaranteed the moment we are in, so we need to be present for it.