The title will not only refer to the what the article will hopefully encompass, but I would also like it to remind you - the reader - to be present while reading this. With a topic as broad as being in the moment, it is difficult to stick to one idea. So please bear with me as I discuss what being here, right now means.

Right now as a college student, I have had some free time, at least once a week. However, there are those days where I feel like I can't even breath and I go from doing homework to meetings to more homework. I feel like I have a hard time paying attention to everything and embracing each activity, even my homework. Since my days are full and I'm always thinking ahead or reflecting on the past, I have a hard time balancing what is in front of me.

I know I have only been a college student for about six weeks, but college is supposed to be the best time in life. But if I'm always thinking in the wrong direction, how am I able to focus on now and enjoying it. During my high school career, I also had this problem of neglecting the now so over the years I learned a thing or two about shifting my mind to the present.

First off, if you can, cut off the distractions, such as your phone/ computer/ television. Obviously depending on the situation you would have different regulations with these devices but generally, they do nothing but take your attention away from what is in front of you. For example, you are at a concert and you want to really be there, take a few pictures but just enjoy the moment. Don't try and get 'an Instagram worthy' picture, you gain nothing substantial from that. Instead, you could listen, have fun, and take mental pictures that will last with you forever.

Additionally, if stress is the distractor: meditate and then with a calm mind, make a to-do list to organize your mind. You see, being in the moment does not only mean to embrace the moment, it also means to know what it important to you, prioritizing. By meditating, you allow the stressers to subsidize and you have the control. All you need to do is focus on your breathing and let ideas come and go, but don't generate them. This is a great way to also help with anxiety and maintaining a healthy breathing pattern.

Amazingly, another way to be in the moment is to become aware of any thought/ idea/ feeling that is keeping us away from now. Basically, a change in attitude and view of your mind. Yes, this is easier said than done however, it is life altering, just the fact that we can let go of whatever diversion and think about what we see, hear, feel, smell, and taste in the now. I suggest that when you enter a building or a classroom or even a home where memories/ and information will be important to remember to "Leave it at the door." Let it all go and bring what you need to have a great experience to the table.

I know life is and will be complicated, full of challenge and overwhelming. But by being present in every moment life gives you, you can see the world differently. Maybe even more beautifully and spread that positivity to others. I'm all about that positivity here because it's what encourages and motivates people. But please don't forget that by "changing your thoughts, you change your world."