Monthly Archives: March 2017

We all want to be more present, whether it’s for our kids, or significant other, or just ourselves, right? And we all want to be happier, no matter how happy or unhappy you are, we crave that feeling of happiness.

But why is so hard to just be happy? What makes it so difficult to live in the present moment?

The answer to those two questions will be different for everyone. It might be that you’re worried about the future, or you’re dwelling on something in the past. No matter what, we all have an opportunity to try to live happier and more present life—it just might take some effort.

Try using these tips to teach yourself to be more present:

1. Don’t look to external sources for approval. Look to yourself.

You don’t have control over what others do, but you do have control over your own thoughts and emotions. Reassurance is great, but you don’t always need the approval of others for you to feel happy. Step outside of your own mind for a moment. Remind yourself to be present and give yourself a bit of encouragement! The only person that will always be there for you, is you.

2. Take control of your media consumption.

Social media, tv, radio. Yes, it is important to know what’s going on in the world, but it’s also important to know what’s going on within yourself and in your life. Social media can be a great way to help you keep in touch with others, but too much if it can make you feel disconnected. Be mindful of the way you use it.

Take a break from the media, hang out with your friend (in the real world, not online!), read a book. Do something that will allow you to live in the here and now.

3. Make a list of your goals, but don’t let them consume you!

A great way to motivate yourself and get your priorities straight is by listing your goals. But, at the same time, it can be easy to focus too much on those goals. So what should you do, throw away your list or at least stash it away somewhere that you won’t be seeing it constantly.

By identifying your goals, then letting them go, they’re staying in the future, where they’re meant to be. This allows you to stay in the present and work toward those future goals naturally.

4. Always be grateful.

Remind yourself of everything you have to be thankful for each day—maybe even multiple times a day! Doing this 1 simple thing can work wonders for reducing anxiety and stress.

5. Learn to become more mindful.

Journal for 10 minutes each night, focus on your breathing, learn to eat mindfully… there are so many different ways to practice mindfulness without meditation.

See a few different ways to incorporate mindfulness into your day here.

In theory, it’s not hard to be present and learn to be happier. But in practice, it takes time and effort to train our minds to live in the now.