How many times have you heard that real power (feeling truly happy & successful) lies in the present moment?
Think about books, talks, spiritual leaders… The Power of Now, Return to Love, Be Here Now…
And while those phrases are helpful reminders, stepping fully into the moment can actually feel difficult and elusive.
Which is why I’m sharing my top 3 ways to embody the present, feel engaged, happy and experience greater success!
1. Breathe
I know I sound like a broken record with this one.
But, swear to God! It really works.
Every single time you stop and take a conscious breath, you clear your mind, relax your nervous system and step back into the moment.
Try it right now!!!!!
2. Declutter Your Mind
Sometimes in this experience we call modern life, a thousand things are vying for your attention. Work obligations, family needs, social media, house repairs, auto maintenance, and on and on… so much it makes your head spin.
One of my husband's favorite books is called The One Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth About Extraordinary Results, by Gary Keller & Jay Papasan.
To boil the book down to one sentence, it is:
Focus on the ONE thing you need to do right now.
When I feel overwhelmed, I use this as a way to refocus.
I also find it helpful when there are 20+ things I need to have finished yesterday. Instead of trying to do them all, I ask myself, “What is the 1 thing I need to do for my (self, business, career, financial freedom - fill in the blank- right now?)
Here’s the thing, even if you’re a great multitasker, you’re still bleeding your focus and pushing yourself out of optimizing your performance.
I used to think I could do multiple tasks well until I realized how much energy I was wasting. Once I began using this new strategy, I was honestly shocked by how much more effective, happy, clear and successful I was. Largely because I was fully present.
Why not give it a try? Think about it like an experiment.
Ask yourself, “What is the 1 thing I need to do right now?”
Once that goal, task, job is completed, ask again.
See how you feel.
3. Commit & Focus
This is the enactment of number 2.
It’s about honing your thoughts and making the commitment to actually stay focused despite your mind’s desire to pull you away.
Here’s the truth, when you step fully into the present moment and laser focus, you can accomplish anything! Seriously.
When I was in my first "real" job at 22, a friend of mine gave me a piece of advice. He said that whatever I did, to do it well. He pointed out that regardless of how seemingly insignificant a job might appear, that I should do it fully.
What exactly did he mean?
He meant that if you’re doing the laundry, taking out the trash, washing your face, or talking to a friend, you are in 100%. You are as focused on that task as you would be if you were traversing a narrow, high mountain ridge, about to land your biggest deal, or fulfilling a life-long dream.
In other words, be fully engaged and present in the task at hand.
Now that you’ve taken a few deep breaths, and are ready to hone your mind, what’s the 1 thing you need to do?
Remember to have fun with it and allow yourself the pleasure of being present.
If you want to awaken even more deeply to this present moment, check out my guided meditation on the podcast today.
Have a listen!
Wishing you so much happiness and success as you empower yourself RIGHT NOW!