Creating Happiness In Each Moment

Emotional Tools for Better Living, Relax and Enjoy

What is the Only Moment You Can Enjoy?

This moment! The moment that is right now is the only one that can give you joy. No matter what anyone says about the past or future, neither can give you joy unless you allow the present moment to accept it.

Past, Present, and Future

Many people would rather use their time to think about the past and future than to enjoy the present. I used to be this way and at times I still am, although I must admit that I’ve come a long way. I practiced bringing my attention back to the present moment, which has slowly improved my life. Every time a thought strayed to what was bad about my life, I would counter the feelings by thinking of something that would help me see the situation from a more positive angle. The fun in exploring the infinite world of our thoughts and emotions comes through knowing that by trial and error, improvement will come.

I am much better at releasing my past, but I struggle with my inability to attain my dreams. This is because I know I can change my future, but I can’t change my past. It seems logical to want my future to be so wonderful because I know it’s possible.

The only way you can improve your future is by improving the present you. The future you is only as happy and productive as the present you will eventually become. If the present you isn’t improving, the future you won’t be any happier. Like all great masters of painting, Kung fu, interior design, carpentry and happiness, you will have to start slow and progress forward.

Small steps toward improving your outlook

You must allow yourself to focus on the good things that the present moment is creating, and make sure you do this periodically throughout the day. Notice I said “allow” and not “force” your focus on the good things, because it takes time to develop your skills. If you are too forceful you will probably get frustrated and give up. If you are too gentle you will probably get bored. So it’s all about finding your comfort level and knowing what amount of focus works best for you. If you have a thought about how much you dislike your job, counter its effects by noticing one thing that you do like about it. The positive thought could be as simple as a co-worker that you eat lunch with or the cup of tea that you have at your desk. You must feed the constructive side of your emotions, and even the smallest positive detail will work.

You’ll probably notice improvements in your level of joy after only a week, but this is only the beginning. Try to create a routine, so a habit forms. Focusing on the good things in the present moment will improve anyone’s outlook. It seems really simple and it is, but many people are afraid to apply it to their lives because they have difficulty letting go of old thought patterns. That’s the hard part: releasing the “old you” and creating an “evolved you” that will see the joy that used to pass you by.

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Karl @ January 9, 2008