Living in the Present

One of my greatest teachers for demonstrating how to live in the present moment is Eckhart Tolle. He’s taught me that the present moment is all we really have. He has shown me that we are not our thoughts; who we really are, is the stillness behind the mental noise.

 I love this quote:

 “Wherever you are, be there totally. If you find you’re here and now intolerable and it makes you unhappy, you have three options: remove yourself from the situation, change it, or accept it totally. If you want to take responsibility for your life, you must choose one of those options, and you must choose now. Then accept the consequences.” Eckart Tolle

I realize that this may seem easier said than done. But, I also know as Glennon Doyle says, “we can do hard things!” Being conscious means living your authentic self. When we do this, we’ll suffer rejection from others. Once we’re through all that we’ll also experience more joy. Being loyal to yourself and living from your “knowing” is the only way to live. Remaining present is how we accomplish this!

There’s a lot of information out there on using mindfulness to remain present. My favorite ways to get back to the present moment are:

·       Breathing is my anchor (in for 3, hold for 1, out for 3)

·       Nature, I remain present in nature by using my senses

·       Humming or singing a song in my head always brings me back

·       Listening to music

·       Any form of creativity (painting, writing, dancing, cooking, etc.)

·       Exercise (yoga, walking, etc.)

·       Being grateful for the moment, no matter what that may be

I’ve also found that I’m a much better teacher and parent when I’m present. We must enter the present moment to connect - then we are better able to recognize each other’s spirit.

I’m absolutely not always present. I try and fail, and then I try, and try again! Most humans are never fully present. If I have a few moments throughout the day that I feel present moment awareness, I call it a success!

More ideas for living a present life in my book, “Empowering our Future.” Available on my home page.

Until next time…be where you are!