WORD OF THE WEEK – PRESENT (NOW)
WORD OF THE WEEK – PRESENT (NOW)
Our minds wander and our thoughts flit in and out. Many of us have difficulty staying in the present and truly enjoying the now moments.
Our bodies might be sitting quietly, sharing a cup of coffee with a friend, but our minds are already running ahead—thinking about the chores, the washing, and the long list of must-dos waiting for us at home.
At other times, our minds travel backwards. We replay regrets from yesterday, last week, or even years ago, beating ourselves up over something we said or did.
So often we are everywhere else… except in the present moment.
What does it mean to be present?
There are many ways to explain this idea.
For me, being present is a daily — sometimes even moment-by-moment — challenge to appreciate the small, everyday experiences of life.
It sounds simple enough, doesn’t it?
But it is not always easy. Our minds are busy places. Researchers suggest we can have thousands of thoughts each day, constantly moving from one idea to the next.
While we are, in theory, the masters of our thoughts, the distractions of life and our daily responsibilities often throw us off course. Before we know it, our thoughts are in control rather than us.
The double meaning of the word “present”
I like to think about the word present in two ways:
The past has already been written, and the future is still unwritten
But today - this moment - is where life is happening.
• Present = now
• Present = a gift
Perhaps that is a reminder in itself — the moment we are living in right now is a gift.
Why is it difficult to be present?
Most of us find it challenging to live fully in the present because of the fast-paced lives we lead.
We are constantly trying to pack more and more into our already busy days. At times it can feel as if we are simply trying to keep our heads above water.
Added to this is the constant digital distraction — emails, WhatsApp messages, social media notifications, and endless scrolling.
Then there are our worries about the future: global events, financial concerns, the uncertainty of the world around us.
And of course, the lingering regrets from the past.
No wonder our minds feel crowded.
Sometimes my brain is so busy planning tomorrow that it completely misses today.
Sad? Yes.
But there is good news.
Ways to practise being present
The good news is that we can gently train ourselves to become more present in our daily lives.
Breathe
Pause in the middle of your busy day — even if you need to set a reminder. Take a slow breath and allow yourself a moment of calm.
Stop and notice
Pay attention to the small things: the gentle rain, birds chirping outside your window, or the quiet pleasure of your first cup of coffee in the morning.
Do one thing at a time
Multitasking often pulls our attention in too many directions. Try focusing on one task at a time and give it your full attention.
Practise gratitude
Take a moment to appreciate what you have right now.
Use a positive phrase for the day
A simple phrase can help shift your mindset. For example:
“Today is going to be a great day.”
Personal reflection
I am learning that a wonderful way to start the day is with a simple positive thought:
“Today is going to be a great day. I am going to slow down, enjoy the moments with more clarity, and be grateful for the present.”
It does not mean the day will be perfect, but it reminds me to be more aware of the moments that truly matter.
Final thought
The past has already been written, and the future is still unwritten.
But today — this moment — is where life is actually happening.
Your challenge
What small moment will you choose to notice today?