Why do you dwell on things that don’t matter when there are so many things that do? ~ Dennis Sharpe
Let me ask you something: have you ever caught yourself thinking about the past, or so-called “missed opportunities,” rather than focusing on what is right in front of you: the gift of the “right now” or the present.
To help jog your memory, your thinking might sound something like this:
“If I had done ABC, I would have a more successful business.”
“I could be living this luxurious life in another city doing what I love, but…”
“I´d be so happy if only I had a business partner …”
I could keep going, but I’m sure something has hit home and you get the point.
Needless to say, when we are not living in the present and are lamenting over the past, therein, lies the problem.
Many times, we (or, our most dominant dwelling thoughts, rather) get in our (own) way and are a part of the problem of why we feel that we are not living the life we desire.
Essentially, we are dreaming or fantasizing, about a future that may never come to pass.
In my opinion, it takes great courage to be mindful and grateful about “the present” because this is something that you actually have the ability to impact.
Bottom line: No one can be truly happy if they are not present in life’s present moment(s).
When anyone operates in the mode of the past or dwelling on thoughts about so-called “missed opportunities”, he or she feels miserable…like a victim —like everything fantastic is happening for everyone over there.
These are all lies, but it is happening because we are identifying with our negative thoughts regarding what we could have or should have done.
On the contrary, being mindful or living in the present is the opposite of that and challenges are minds to be grateful for the “here and the NOW.”
I have realized that living in the present really is what matters.
Focusing my thoughts on positivity and gratitude of the here and now brings peace and calm to my body and heart.
Moreover, dwelling on these positive thoughts brings positive opportunities my way so my mind is no longer dwelling on missed opportunities or what I could have, should have or would have done in the past.
To that point, I’d like to hear from each of you…what thoughts are you dwelling on?
~ Preston Byrd
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