One life lesson we may learn too well is to seek happiness in good things ahead. We look to that future moment when we'll get that promotion, realize that dream, buy that special thing, or take that vacation, as the time when we'll be happy. However, if that is your primary focus, you may find yourself caught in the stress of forever-seeking and never fully enjoy what is happening right now.
When you merge these two skills, you learn to be happy now. In this article, we'll look at three simple actions that develop these skills and help you arrive at a state of present happiness.
1. Meditation is a practice of "being present" by focusing your attention in specific ways for a period of time. As you meditate, you learn to observe where your attention is located. You learn to recognize when your attention is drawn off to the past or the future so you can return to the present. This is a skill that you develop through consistent practice over time.
Reflection and planning are important skills as well. Yet, when you are unable to let go of worry and fear, you lose your ability to consciously choose your point of focus.
2. Appreciate
As you develop the ability to be present-focused, you start to notice more detail in what is occurring inside and around you. You can taste this moment because your attention is "here." You also discover that you can choose to focus on any number of different details about what is happening.
There will be circumstances that challenge your ability to find the good in them. Old habits of negativity, judgment, blame, and complaining will get triggered and you'll lose your appreciative focus.
See if you can observe your reaction, without being consumed by it. Witness your thoughts and feelings with a light, curious attention. Understand that thoughts and feelings come and go-and you have a choice about which ones you entertain and maintain. You can choose your focus in line with your intent. That is the key to being happy now.
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