The thing is, we all see time as a linear thing. In there, there is past, present and future which for us, unconsciously, means that we can (in our minds) move backwards or move forward. For example, we can lock ourselves in the past and over-analyze every little thing or conversation that happened. At the same time, we can simply postpone many things for the future, because in our heads we know that this is what is coming next.
We take this concept of time as a linear thing for granted and without even realizing it, we relentlessly exploit in our everyday lives.
This doesn’t sound too bad, but the truth is, time is not linear; it actually consists of a lot of small different moments. And as soon we realize that, our lives can be changed.
How?
Because there are no more past, present or the future, we can’t get stuck in the past or leave things for the future. As long as we start living in the moment (as cheesy as it sounds), we become more aware of our surroundings. Our decisions are more conscious and the things we speak matter more. Getting stuck in the past means that we let the present to pass by unnoticed, while leaving every small decision for the future makes us reckless without even realizing it.
This is important when we talk about relationships and about work.
Imagine, how many arguments and stupid miscommunication incidents could be spared if we would just pay more attention and would be in that moment a little bit more? Actually listening and participating in the conversations could make our lives richer and we could learn more about ourselves and other people too.
Instead of “just making it through another horrible day at work”, we could work on creating a different work environment for ourselves.
Rather than experiencing only the tenth of every emotion, we could feel stronger and deeper feelings, that would allow us to cultivate our emotional intelligence.
We could grow more and learn more, because we would know that there is no future where you mentally can “store” your plans and dreams. Imagining that you have only this moment makes you vulnerable and scares a bit, because unknown is always intimidating. However, it only strengthens the power of this moment and makes it even more meaningful.
Let’s be honest, most of the opportunities around us and the only thing we need to do is to simply to grab it. Living in this moment makes us more conscious, allows us to feel deeper every feeling that there is and experience life to the fullest.