positivethinking

So many of us live in the past, where we doubt ourselves, feel guilty, and allow ourselves to dwell on these events in our lives that will inhibit us from enjoying the present. There are also many of us that live in our dream of what we want for the future, which also doesn’t allow us to focus on the present. How can we live in the moment?

When working with children, there are so many opportunities in the day that are called teaching moments. These are not written in a lesson plan, but allow for us to live in the moment. Let me give you an example. When walking outside, we might see several butterflies. In seeing a butterfly we can talk about how it flies, what color it was, and even explore even further and talk about the metamorphosis of a caterpillar. We can even sit down a draw what we’ve seen on our learning moment.

We all have what is called gut instincts, feelings that we should be listening to that come from some unknown place in our bodies. This can keep us lined in the present, because these feelings force us into acting in the present.

I know for me, I have a full-time job, kids, and am in school. So, I do take life one day at a time. Now, I’m not always living in the present, I admit; but I am much more lax in my views, and allow myself to live day by day. I’ve learned that we can’t expect our dreams to always pan out, and we have to make the best of what we have. Most of us have a great deal to be thankful for, and I focus on these aspects of my life. This is so much more valuable to me, and allows me to conserve energy.

Yes, I do often reflect on the past, because I know that it has shaped who I am, however, to let these events hold me back would be a shame. I challenge you to think about how you can continue to live in the moment, and not dwell in either the past or the future.