As we approach the end of the year, I understand that the world around us is filled with chatter, noise, and distractions, reminding us of the limited time we have left in 2023. Everywhere we turn, questions arise about our plans for the remaining days: what goals do we aim to achieve or accomplish before the year comes to a close?
In a world that often prioritizes competing, completing tasks, and checking items off our to-do lists, it becomes essential to pause and reflect on the significance of ‘NOW.’ As someone who also values ambition, success, and the pursuit of goals, I want to share a different perspective that focuses on the power of being in the present moment. The past is behind us, the future is yet to come, and all we truly have is right now. In this space of awareness and intention, we can truly thrive and find fulfillment.
Instead of solely focusing on completing and checking items off your to-do list just to feel validated, I challenge you to adopt a different perspective. Find time to listen to the whispers of your heart and truly connect with the present moment.
I would like to offer you a few self-care tips that can help you stay connected and present in your everyday life:
- Find Time for Stillness. Allocate a few minutes each day, whether 1 or 2, or even 10 minutes, to embrace stillness and focus on your breath. During these moments of quiet introspection, allow yourself the space to be free from distractions. Being with yourself creates an opportunity to come home to your authentic self, cultivating awareness and intention in all areas of your life.
- Embrace Moments of Solitude. Amidst the busyness of life, make it a priority to find moments of solitude. Whether taking a short walk, savoring a cup of tea, or engaging in a mindful activity, honor these pockets of time for yourself. This is different from the stillness above, but you should still embrace the calmness and clarity that arise when you disconnect from external stimuli. You can rediscover a deeper connection with yourself and the present moment through solitude.
- Decompress Before Bedtime. Set aside thirty minutes to an hour before bed for self-care and rejuvenation. Engage in activities that promote relaxation and tranquility, such as reading a book, practicing gentle stretching, journaling your thoughts, or being with yourself. Allow this time to release the day’s tensions, inviting peace and calmness into your being. This is a good time for the stillness I talk about above and will help you get in the right mindset for bedtime.
- Conscious Breathing. Throughout your day, remind yourself to take deep breaths. Conscious breathing serves as an anchor, grounding you in the present moment and fostering clarity and mindfulness.
As we approach the end of this year, let’s not only focus on external accomplishments and validation, but also on the beauty of each moment. I challenge you to embrace the power of now, as it is in this space that transformation and intention thrive.