It’s natural to obsess over past mistakes. In one way or another we stress about what may be ahead of us.
Yet every second spent worrying about a past or future moment distracts us from what is important in the here and now.
It is mind-bending to consider that we only ever have NOW.
The past is a memory. The future is merely anticipated.
Whenever you get overwhelmed by all the work that you have to get done, pause for a second and simply ask yourself — “What’s important now?”
You should be able to point to a single task that is the highest priority in this moment. Then, invest all your attention to that task.
Whether it’s pursuing the pinnacle of success in your field, or simply surviving some awful or trying ordeal, the same approach works.
Don’t think about the end — think about what is in front of you in this moment.
“Don’t let your imagination be crushed by life as a whole. Don’t try to picture everything bad that could possibly happen. Stick with the situation at hand, and ask, “Why is this so unbearable? Why can’t I endure it?” ~ Marcus Aurelius
Stick to the situation at hand. Focus on what’s immediately in front of you. No strain, no struggling. No exertion or worry.
Just one simple movement after another.
It seems obvious, but we forget this when it matters most. This simple question has the power to transform our lives.
What’s Important NOW?
