Welcome fellow readers! Let's talk about a misconception that has been floating around. There is this crazy notion that living in the moment, aka mindfulness, means that you don't plan for the future. What in the world?! This is not true and I'm going to tell you why.
Let's pretend you are lounging in a hammock on a beautiful day. The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and you don't have a care in the world. Doesn't that sound pretty great? I'm going to say something shocking to some of you, you can still be a master planner lounging in that hammock, and that my friends is because of mindfulness.
Mindfulness Unveiled
I want to point out that mindfulness isn't about zoning out and becoming oblivious to the responsibilities or dreams that we have down the road. Instead, it's about savoring the moment you are in all the while keeping your eye on the prize which is your future. Over the past few years, I have learned how important living in the moment can be and what we are missing out on when we don't. However, I still look at my vision board daily to keep those goals and dreams in mind. Mindfulness is almost like that trusty sidekick, like the peanut butter to your jelly kind of thing. It will help you navigate the turns of the presence easily while laying the groundwork for the future.
What Can it Do for You?
Let's pretend you are planning your next big thing. Maybe you want to go backpacking, or maybe you have always wanted a sheep farm because well, they are darn cute. As you start brainstorming and coming up with all these wild thoughts mindfulness will nudge you and remind you to stay grounded in the here and now.
As you write out your bucket list of dreams and goals mindfulness will be sitting on your shoulder whispering in your ear to approach each thing with intention and purpose. It will help you stay true to your values and passions as you chart your course.
But Wait There's More!
Mindfulness isn't just about those big dreams and goals. It's also about those simple joys that make life so great. For instance, taking a bite of your favorite dessert, watching the sunset from your favorite spot on the deck, having a heartfelt conversation with a loved one, and it could go on and on. Mindfulness will teach you to savor these moments and not take them for granted.
Let's Set the Record Straight
Living in the moment doesn't mean abandoning planning and future-oriented thinking. It's about striking a harmonious balance between savoring the sweetness of the present and paving the way for a future filled with excitement and possibility.
Next time you are lying in that hammock with a cool drink in hand, remember you can still be the planner all while enjoying the moments that matter. The gift you have is that little friend called mindfulness which will guide you where you need to be. I encourage you to stay mindful and curious and never stop dreaming.
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