Sometimes people are too focused on the past to even notice the present or look forward to the future. The message in church last night got me thinking about it, but it is also something I have personally been trying to work on in my life. It is so easy to think about the what ifs and should haves. But there is absolutely no reason for it and nothing can be done to change it. Although we can and should learn from the past, it does no good to spend time dwelling on it. The present is now to be enjoyed and the future is what we have to look forward to (although worrying about the future is also not a worthwhile way to spend time either).
Sadly, though, this is so much easier said than done. Is it just in human nature for our minds to wander backwards? Am I alone in my fight to keep focused on the present? Although I feel I do a lot better at this than I used, to, are there any strategies for doing this or is it just training your mind to push those thoughts away?
May 4, 2009 at 11:01 am
I recommend reading a book called “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle. He talks about ways you can live in the “now.” They actually worked for me. Another thing to keep in mind about life is this: Always having our focus on the past is like driving a car with our focus in the rearview mirror. How far do you get doing that? How effective is that? Hope this helps. Take care, A.
May 5, 2009 at 10:35 am
You see, you and I have opposite issues. I tend to live in the future, which prevents me from appreciating what my life is like right now. I’m such a planner and it becomes a problem at times. We should chat about this and maybe we can balance each other out!