Have you been thinking about the past a lot lately? Do you find yourself trying to predict the future?

The truth is, we all have a tendency to constantly think about the past or the future, maybe a little bit too much. We find ourselves regretting what happened yesterday and wondering about what tomorrow holds. We tend to forget about the present and the power of now. Today, let us try to focus on…today!

Don’t multitask

It may seem like a good idea to do several things at the same time, especially if you have a lot going on, but the truth is that multitasking prevents you from living in the present. While it is sometimes difficult to focus all your energy on one thing, you will notice how much more productive you are when you concentrate on just one task. 

Indeed, you will also probably finish it faster than when trying to squeeze in a hundred things at the same time! The point is to give whatever you are doing in the present all your attention.

Notice your surroundings

How often do you pause and look around? Take this opportunity right now to take a deep breath and really take in where you are.

What patterns do you notice the most? How many windows are there in the room? How do the sun rays look from where you are? 

These may seem like regular elements in your day, but you would be surprised at how unnoticed they are! Looking at your surroundings will help you become more grounded and present and allows you to take a small break from thinking too much.

Practice gratitude 

Living in the moment means being grateful for what you have and where you are now. It’s about acknowledging how far you’ve come and how good now feels. 

You can write down a list of things you are grateful for and review it every day. It serves as a daily remember that the present is a blessing and helps you stay grateful for what you have.

Accept the present 

Letting go of your perception of how things should be is a major step forward in enjoying the present. Instead of dwelling over what could have been, accept things for what they are now and revel in the present!  

Accepting that you cannot control every aspect of your life gives you a sense of freedom and provides great relief.

Be more mindful

Getting distracted is just a part of the chaos of everyday life. But being mindful of everything you do is essential to be more present. A good example would be to focus on your meal while eating. 

How does the food taste?

How does it smell?

Enjoy every bite and forget about what is happening around you as you eat. 

You can follow this method of focusing on the details with every little thing you do. Being more mindful allows you to be more present and enjoy this moment, no matter how small it may seem.