Oprah once said, “being fully present in every moment is the greatest meditation I have found. It’s a prayer of praise to appreciate the now — and the best way I know to create a sense of well-being.”
Two Days of Oprah quotes ?(!) lol check me out.
Anyways!
I’ve decided that 2018 is the year that I want to really work on being fully present. As a society, I feel like we are so wrapped in social media and keeping up with the Jone’s (or in our case the Kardashians), that we aren’t taking the time to step back and enjoy where we are in this moment.
As I have mentioned a thousand times, last year we were so busy. Like we didn’t stop and I feel like the year just flew by us. We did so many amazing things, but I know I lacked being in the moment. There were few times that I sat back and felt present. This is such an exciting time in my life that I don’t want to miss anything. I want to be able to look back and fully remember how I felt during this time of my life. I’m over feeling disconnected.
Below are a few things that I will be doing this year to make that conscientious effort to be more present in 2018.
- Put The Phone Down: There is no surprise that this one is first on the list! We are so captivated by our phones and I am 100% guilty of it. We have full access to everything we could possibly need, 24/7. Leaving us completely and totally glued to them. Checking your phone for a missed call or text is normal, but it’s the mindless scrolling that I think is taking so much of our time. I have noticed when Colton and I make a conscious effort to put our phones away during dates, car rides and everyday conversations, how much more present and connected we are in the moment. Everyday, take a moment to put your phone away. Whether your out with friends, with your parents, at a concert or at a date, leave your phone in your purse.
- Listen to More Music: I truly believe that music is the medicine for the soul. Music makes you feel. It can make you cry, dance and smile all at the same time. I love how a short clip of a song, can instantly take you back in time, and remind you of your past in an instant. Music has a way of bringing presence into your life.
- Learn to be a better listener. Instead of worrying about what you’re going to say next in a conversation, let the person you are talking to finish and really absorb it is that they are saying. When you’re so quick to jump to “your turn” in a conversation, it means you’re only half way listening. Try to make an effort to listen more and really allow presence into your conversations.
- Go outside: Just like music, fresh air is good for the soul. Especially since majority of us sit inside all day at a desk. Taking 15 minutes to sit outside or go for a light walk can instantly lift your mood. Put your phone down and admire everything that is around you. This sounds lame, but even just taking a moment to look up at the sky and have a moment to yourself. It’s a great way to leave all of your worries behind for one slight moment.
- Keep a Journal: Daily reflections are a great way to find positivity out of your day. Whether it is writing down one happy memory before you head to bed or writing a list of what you’re thankful for that day, it makes you take the time to reflect on what you experience and the positives in your life.
- Pick up a book: Reading has a way of captivating you. I wouldn’t call myself an avid reader, but when I do choose to pick up a book, as opposed to mindlessly watching television, I always seem to feel more myself, inspired and present. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to put your phone away and take time for yourself.
- Declutter: Clutter can cause you stress without you even knowing it. We get so caught up in buying items that are supposed to make us happy, but it’s crazy how much happier you can feel when you start getting rid of it all. Do a purge of your closet, your junk drawer or your storage unit and be amazed how much better you feel afterward.
- Leave mistakes and regrets in the past. Focusing on the past only leaves you in despair. If you’re constantly upset about something that happened in the past, you’re taking away the opportunity to be happy today. Focus less on your past mistakes and focus more on what you can do today to be a better and more present self.
Do you guys have any tips on how to be more present this year?
xo,
Lauren
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