The Importance of Being in the Present Moment

By: Ashley Kraut, MA, LPC, NCC

The world if fast paced and full of distraction. How easily can we be consumed by flashy advertisements, electronic notifications, videos, etc? There is a choice in each fleeting moment, we get to decide if we experience the moment, or something else. Whether it be scrolling on our phones or just getting lost in thought, we are either in the present moment, or we are not. Take a moment to think about what you could be missing out on when you choose to disconnect. Maybe it is the beauty of your surroundings, maybe a random act of kindness, maybe it’s your child’s sweet face. What are you missing? Do you want to continue to do so? When we make the choice to disconnect it not only takes us away from reality, but it can also fill our minds with thoughts that may not be helpful. For example, how often do you compare yourself to others and start a process of self criticism when you are scrolling through social media? How do you feel when your every thought is consumed with the many tasks you have to accomplish during the day, or fears for the future? I know that not all social media is harmful and daydreams are not always sad or fearful, but I challenge you to start paying attention to what is influencing you and what is being missed out on. Be intentional and take more moments to observe your surroundings, to notice and actually live your life. “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in awhile, you could miss it” (Ferris Bueller’s Day Off).