As a society, we have become incredibly fixated on the present moment - the next Instagram like, the next TV episode, the next meal. While it can be helpful to focus on the here and now, constantly living our lives in 24-hour increments can be incredibly detrimental to our mental and physical health.
In fact, a study by the American Psychological Association found that individuals who live with a “present-focused perspective” have a higher likelihood of experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety. This is likely because when we only focus on the present, we tend to rely heavily on our immediate emotional reactions to problems and stressors. This can lead to impulsive decision-making, increased stress, and a lack of perspective on the bigger picture.
However, living our lives in more than a 24-hour cycle can be incredibly difficult. We are bombarded with distractions and have been conditioned to seek out instant gratification. So, how can we shift our mindset to focus less on the present and more on the bigger picture?
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the act of focusing on the present moment without judgment. While mindfulness may seem counter-intuitive to what we’re discussing, it actually helps us to develop a more holistic view of our lives. When we practice mindfulness, we allow ourselves to be fully present in the moment without becoming too attached to our surroundings. This can help us to develop a greater sense of perspective on our lives as a whole.
Set Long-Term Goals
Setting long-term goals can be incredibly helpful when it comes to shifting our focus away from the present. When we have something to work towards in the future, we are less likely to get bogged down in the present. Additionally, setting long-term goals helps us to shift our perspective away from immediate gratification and towards more meaningful, long-lasting rewards.
Find a Community
Having a strong support system can be incredibly helpful when it comes to breaking out of the 24-hour mindset. When we surround ourselves with people who encourage us to focus on our long-term goals and provide us with perspective when we’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, we are better equipped to look beyond the present moment.
Practice Self-Care
Taking care of ourselves physically and emotionally can help us to develop a more long-term perspective on our lives. When we are well-rested, physically active, and engaging in activities that bring us joy and fulfillment, we feel more equipped to tackle challenges that arise. Additionally, taking care of ourselves can help us to feel more in control of our lives and less likely to get bogged down in the present moment.
Living in today's fast-paced world can often feel overwhelming and chaotic, leaving us little time to reflect on our overall well-being. Yet, taking a step back and focusing on mindfulness, achieving long-term goals, self-care, and connection with others can provide us with a refreshed mindset, allowing us to shift our perspective from the present to the future.
By prioritizing our physical and emotional health, we can create a sense of calm amidst the chaos and give ourselves a higher percentage chance of working toward a purposeful future. Rather than merely accepting what's ahead of us, we can take control of it by pursuing our healthy desires and making them a reality.
Remember, our future is not predetermined. Instead, it's up to us to forge our path by co-creating with God, just as he's invited us to do. So, let's start by taking the time to engage in meaningful activities that nurture our body, mind, and soul, and continue to work towards the future were designed to build.
