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, we will be adequately prepared. We can live green by adhering to the axiom, "Make do, do without, use it up, wear it out." We can also ensure a brighter tomorrow by donating time, money and gently used items to those less fortunate than ourselves. "When we help another up the mountain, we are that much closer to the top ourselves."
* Cultivate an attitude of gratitude
Appreciating what is good in our life rather than focusing on what is lacking will allow us to embrace each experience without qualification. Avoid playing the game of "what if?"
It is difficult to enjoy a picnic if we are busy worrying about the possibility of rain. If we invite ten guests to a party and five show up; enjoy the company of those present, rather than lamenting the absence of those missing.
Create a "Moments" journal. Reflect on the day and record each occasion when you were truly "in the moment." You will discover those moments occurring with more frequency and heightened enjoyment.
Only by living "in the moment" can we appreciate and enjoy the full measure of today with increased optimism about the future.
Practice having faith in tomorrow and trusting in what is meant to be. Through meditation, or spending time in quiet reflection, we can reach a deeper state of self-awareness, thus bringing inner peace and balance into our lives regardless of the unknown possibilities of tomorrow.