by Carol Gioia

Created on: February 12, 2009   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

Today is referred to as "the present," for it is truly a gift to wake up each new day with the opportunity to design and create a happy and fulfilled life. Too often, however, we waste today by spending it dwelling on the past, or anticipating the future.

We plan, scheme, worry and dream about what's going to be. If we are not thinking about tomorrow, then our minds are consumed with yesterday. We sometimes lament, regret or analyze our past thoughts, words and deeds, even though we cannot go back and do them over.

Yesterday is gone; we cannot recapture or redo what occurred then. We can have an influence on what happens tomorrow. We can do this by concentrating on today, for in a few short hours, that is what tomorrow will become - today. What we do today can have a huge influence on our health, wealth and happiness tomorrow.

Our modern lifestyle is hectic and demanding; it is easy to get caught up in the bad habit of being "too busy" and "too stressed." We have good intentions to simplify and enjoy life, but the days turn into weeks and then months and suddenly we realize that we cannot remember the last time we laughed, relaxed or counted our blessings.

We determine to "seize the day" and cherish the moments of our life, but we are so out of practice that we don't know where to start.

Here are some tips for maximizing enjoyment of the "here and now" in order to enhance our possible "tomorrows."

* Observe children

Children are the masters of the art of living in the present. The reason childhood memories conjure up so much fun is because when we were young we didn't look beyond what we were doing at the moment. We can strive to put our grown up attitudes in "time out," and invite our own inner child out to play.

* Be active

Focus fully on being productive at work and at play. Indulging in "passive" activities robs us of consciously enjoying the moment. We want to insure that we are participants in our daily lives, as opposed to spectators. Turn off the television, computer and other technological toys and engage with others in active, positive ways.

* Think positive

Let go of negative thoughts of anger, guilt and regret. Pay attention to the simple beauty of nature and concentrate on nurturing relationships. Smile, hug someone, and commit random acts of kindness on a daily basis. Acting in a positive way is a conscious choice.

* Plan wisely

Living within our means, saving for a rainy day and taking a "green" approach in our lifestyle will insure that when tomorrow comes,

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