It may seem like a worn out thought, living in the moment, but there’s something wise and profound about that idea. The hours I’ve spent living for a moment instead of in the moment are too numerous to count. I wonder how much I could have accomplished if I allowed myself to be in the moment instead of wishing for another one.

When I was working in the corporate world, I lived for the moment I got to leave work. I ached for those planned vacation days to a point that the task at hand probably didn’t get my best effort. When I was in the throes of trauma recovery, I yearned for the hurting to stop.

Meanwhile, synergies I failed to be a part of helped propel my projects toward completion. While I pined for that vacation, moments I could have put more words into that book I was writing withered into the ether. I prolonged my misery because I ran away from the feelings that were there to help me heal. I never stopped to take notice. Instead of being in the moment, I inadvertently skirted around juicy life morsels that were taking place right in front of me. (If I knew then, what I know now!) Would have, could have, should have… who hasn’t ever said those words to themselves?

Retired now, I’ve given myself the time to be where I am—living in the moment (instead of for the moment). Life, from that perspective, is fuller and richer. I experience joy being here, right now, writing these words for you to consume. This experience I’m putting into words might just help someone find their own moments to live… present and fully. Thank you for living in the moment to munch on these ideas! Find your now and live there.

Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay