Ever since I can remember, I’ve measured my life through all my big moments and achievements. Whether it was getting my driver’s license, finally graduating high school, or becoming a wolverine, I’ve always found my vision focused on my next colossal life step. My life was measured by these moments, and everything else in between was when I would prepare for these times. I know this is the wrong way to think of things, but I blame it on today’s mindset of constantly looking for the next thing that will change your life or put you on a better path—always needing to achieve and calculate your every move. Now, yes, I know this mindset isn’t entirely horrible as it sets us up for a bright future, but it also causes less living in the present…which is my exact problem.
I recognized this was my problem once I came to college and never stopped thinking about my every future decision. Whether it was an event happening next weekend, a new club meeting, what I would do over the summer, or the endless due dates for assignments…the list goes on. College’s fast-paced and competitive environment made me feel like time was constantly slipping away before I could even grasp it. I felt I couldn’t be fully present, as I was always wrapped up in the road ahead of me.
I began to notice myself doing this often and realized it was only causing me more anxiety and fear regarding what lay ahead when what mattered the most was directly in front of me, how it’s the little daily moments that make life so unique. Taking a step back from the continuous cycle of go, go, go led me to some of my favorite moments. How all of the last-second yes’s and random plans lead you to places you had no idea existed. Whether it’s a new connection with someone, a potential opportunity, or a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We can make the most memories in these moments, and some of my favorite times are from the simplest of actions. Focusing on the present allows you to be fully connected with your surroundings, allowing you to flourish. Since focusing less on what lies ahead, I’ve found greater happiness in my life. We all dictate our next moment and should do so with great thought, big or small. It could just be the simple act of asking a new friend for coffee or setting your phone down to take a step back; you have no idea where that experience could take you.
So… be present. Don’t think of all the small moments and everyday life as a buffer for the future; it’s your life, and every moment is essential, regardless of size. The future will happen no matter what, and you will eventually face it, but right now, you need to focus on what’s in your control.