The words, “live for today” is cliché. It is something people say without being mindful that in any one day, you could live thousands of lifetimes. Otherwise, it would have to be assumed that it is just something people say, just to say them.
Words matter, especially those we utter to ourselves. Because they do, William Garcia reminds us that living is a moment-to-moment experience, not a daily one. To illustrate, Garcia writes about what he calls “wholesale” and “retail” Time. He also mentions that the idea of tomorrow is just an idea; A thought experiment. That thoughts about the past or the future takes away from our awareness of the Now. That this “thought surfing”, back and forth, could be what creates anxiety and depression.
Therapists say, “Calm down and live in the moment!” Have you ever pondered why living in the moment is so important, and why it is helpful in living a healthy, happy, and peaceful life?
Then let us discuss the meaning of living in the present, and an example of living in the moment.
What Does it Mean to Live in Moment?
Living in the present moment requires you to first start thinking about slowing down. Then, as you do start to slow down, pause, and reflect on how you are living, where you are, what you are doing to live, and with whom you are. Try to avoid thoughts about what you cannot change or control. We cannot entertain thoughts about the possible and the impossible in the same moment. We choose one at the expense of the other.
Now, with your thoughts put in their proper perspectives, try to enjoy the moments as they slide on.
Living in the moment includes five fundamental rules we are going to highlight below.
1. Be Grateful for What You Have
The more grateful you are for your blessings in life, the more contented you feel. Whereas, if you keep focusing on things you lack, or do not “have” time for, it could devalue the present, the only time there is. Garcia believes that while we entertain negative thoughts, we do at the expense of positive ones. That this is a loss of living expense we could never recover.
Some therapists encourage their clients to write a list of the things and people they are grateful for, and to review them daily and as they continue to add to the list. That this exercise would help improve their sense of gratitude.
2. Accept Things as They Are
Another guiding principle to stay happy by living in the present, is to accept things as they are. The more realistic you are and become, the easier it is to learn to be happy with what you have, or to make the best of the unexpected.
Because we cannot control everything that happens, practicing acceptance helps with letting go.
3. Practice Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness meditation is a holistic approach that keeps you aware of the present moment. This type of meditation increases your sense of presence and focus in the Now.
Daily, or, at least the regular practice of mindfulness meditation, can help you become more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings, increasing the amount of time you “spend” in the present moment.
4. Surround Yourself with People Who Make You Feel Fulfilled
Before you surround yourself with people who make you feel fulfilled, be that kind of person. Being with like-minded people makes for a positive way to live in the present moment. It exponentially raises the positivity and happiness level of those you are with. Here there is no room for negativity or pessimism.
5. Try to remind yourself to be mindful.
This is more difficult than it sounds, and why Mr. Garcia admits he wrestled with this for some time. It is like the “chicken and egg” thing. Which came first? Do you have to remind yourself to be mindful or be mindful to remind yourself? William concluded it did not matter the order or time you got there; just that you got there.
Living in the moment, be as you are and as everything and everyone is without judgement.
Now the question is, does W. Garcia also shares the same view about living in the moment? How does the book, Now O’ Clock teach readers to calm down and live in the moment? Here’s a brief insight.
Now O’ Clock: Teaching How to Calm Down and Live in Moment?
The book, Now O Clock by William Garcia is a guide to living in the present moment. Garcia stresses the importance of being mindful that living, is a present tense experience; a “doing” proposition fueled by our emotions and steered by our thoughts. That we cannot worry about the future and experience calmness in the same moment.
The author explains how the present moment is constantly changing, and how we often miss out on opportunities because we are not paying attention. He urges readers to be more mindful of their surroundings and taking advantage of opportunities when they arise. He also highlights how living in the present can help us let go of negative thoughts and emotions.
Garcia includes examples from his own life to show how living in the present has helped him overcome challenges and achieved his goals.
Some best quotes highlighting the importance of living in now.
“Living in the moment doesn’t mean we ignore the past or the future, but that we give them attention only when they’re relevant to the present”.
“Now is that constant Instant between the past and the future. It is the only time we live, and the only time we can do something about almost anything” -WG
“The more present we are, the more alive and connected we feel”.
“When we’re fully present, we’re more likely to act with intention and awareness, and less likely to react out of habit”.
“The present moment is a gift. It is where we can connect with our true selves and find the peace and joy that reside within us”.
The main reason why there is so much emphasis on living in the moment throughout the book is, because it is the only way to truly savor life and appreciate all around us. According to Garcia, following are the teaching tips on calming down and living in the moment.
1. Be aware of your thoughts and how they affect your mood.
2. Pay attention to your breath and use it to anchor yourself in the present.
3. Be mindful of your body and its feelings in the present moment.
4. Notice the sights, sounds, and smells around you.
5. Free yourself from releasing emotions without judging them.
6. Accept things as they are, instead of how you wish them to be.
7. Practice gratitude for the good things in your life.
8. Let go of attachment to outcomes and focus on the process.
9. Live in the moment and savor all that life offers.
Following these tips can help you calm down and live in the moment. Try incorporating them into your life and see how they make a difference for you.
Now O Clock. Being Mindful, it Always is, is a must-read to recognize the worth of calming down and tasting life one sip at a time. Order your copy today and nourish your mind with something worth reading!