Many people spend their lives thinking how happy they would be if for example, took promotion at work, inherited property, met the right partner. In this way they depend their happiness on other people, fate or forces outside their control. As a result they fail to focus on “the here and now”.
Many people are trying to live in the future which is a mistake. For example you are watching a movie, a play, you’re at a concert and at the same time you are thinking how you will go back home or what to eat for dinner. Focus on “the here and now”. Of course this doesn’t mean that you won’t plan your future. For example when you will request a raise of your salary, how you will save money or how to invest it.
People that live in “the here and now” are the ones that were in danger of losing their lives. These people consider every moment as a unique gift. They are grateful for living. Of course this doesn’t mean that you have to go through such painful situations to reconsider your life.
There are some ways that can help you change your perspective:
Take a piece of paper and write down the title “The things for which I am grateful.” Start by writing “The fact that I live” and keep focusing on what you love: family, friends, pets, unique places that cause you peace and tranquility. For example “I am grateful that my apartment overlooks the harbor.” Then continue writing about things that are valuable to you. For example about a new car, unique jewelry, old furniture.
It is important that you keep a record of all these as your daily routine doesn’t allow you to appreciate what you have. That’s why we tend to live in the future.
When you won’t be in a good mood you will be able to refer to this list and read it. After a few minutes you can fill out new information. In this way you will always find reasons to believe that your life is nice in “the here and now”.
Additionally you can feel better by expressing your gratitude to the people in your life. For example you are with a friend in a cafe. What you can say is “I am having a good time with you. Thanks for being my friend. “This simple expression will mean a lot for your friend and it will make you feel good, too.
In conclusion let yourself be happy like little children who find meaning in “the here and now”.