Sometimes we get caught up constantly looking for the next thing forgetting to be attentive to the things that truly matter. This is something that I struggle with. I try to always remind myself to be present and pay attention to the things that surround me. Taking note of the little things make a difference. It’s hard to break habits of constantly looking forward to the next thing being that that is how we live our lives. Some of us, always looking forward to the next paycheck, sometimes we spend the paycheck before we get it. You know, that online searching and bookmarking we do. Looking forward to the next trip were going to take, the next assignment we have to do, the next class we need to take, the next appointment we have, the next gadget coming out. We’re always searching the next. It seems like our minds are wired to constantly searching for the next upcoming duty.

Being present is crucial and it’s something that we should do more of. When we are present there may be less stress in our lives. We’re not constantly worried about the next thing we have to do. It’s important that we take time for ourselves. We’re always looking to please other people and trying to fulfill other obligations/responsibilities we have. Like that next paper, we have to write for the next class or the next appointment we have. Don’t forget about you. Take time for yourself even if it’s just for five minutes a day. My favorite way to take time out of the day is to meditate. Meditating is a good way to center and collect yourself from the adversities of the day. Studies prove that meditating for five minutes a day have the power to rewire the mind in a more positive way. Mediating can alleviate stress and tensions within the body. Studies also show an enhance in self-control, productivity, positive emotion, anxiety, and many more positive effects on the body as well. Try it. There’s this cool app I use that offers different meditation techniques, http://www.stopbreathethink.org. Another thing I like to do to soak up my time and be present in going for a walk alone, taking myself out for food, journaling, even reading a book. Journaling truly allows you to sync into the full awareness of your inner matters. All of these activities allow me to withdraw from the mind clutter I encounter.

So many times we are taught to cater to our physical health and forget that our mental health is just as important. If your mental health is healthy then how could you expect your physical health to be up to par? Take care of yourself because self-love is what is truly important. Many times we believe that suppressing our needs and emotions to cater to others’ is what’s best. But in all reality sometimes we have to put ourselves first in order to be able to help other when they are in need.

Self-love is key.