Living for Now, Not for “Someday”
Embracing the present instead of waiting for “someday” brings joy, freedom, and deeper fulfillment to life. We discuss it here!
Photo Credit: Kar-Tr via iStockPhoto.com
By: Jamila Gomez
It’s easy to get caught up in the idea of “someday.” Someday, you’ll take that dream trip. Someday, you’ll pursue that passion. Someday, you’ll make time for the things that truly matter. However, the reality is that “someday” can be a slippery concept, one that keeps being pushed further into the future until it risks never arriving at all. Embracing the present and living for now, rather than for some distant “someday,” brings freedom, joy, and a deeper sense of fulfillment to life.
When we live for now, we stop delaying happiness and start embracing the moments we already have. One of the most liberating aspects of focusing on the present is realizing that joy isn’t something we have to chase; it can be found in the here and now. For example, taking a few moments to appreciate a beautiful sunset, engage in a heartfelt conversation, or indulge in a creative hobby can bring satisfaction that no far-off goal could ever fully provide. Small acts of mindfulness and gratitude can anchor us in today, making even ordinary days feel extraordinary.
Living in the present doesn’t mean abandoning all plans or goals. It’s more about approaching life with a sense of immediacy and purpose. Rather than waiting for the “perfect” time to do something, why not start small today? Want to learn an instrument? Pick up a tutorial and play for a few minutes each day. Dreaming of traveling? Begin exploring your own city or region and making memories now. By breaking down large goals into small, daily actions, we make it possible to incorporate our dreams into our current lives rather than deferring them indefinitely.
Research shows that living in the moment can lead to lower stress levels, improved mental health, and stronger relationships. When we focus on today, we’re less likely to feel overwhelmed by regrets about the past or anxieties about the future. Living fully in the present also allows us to show up more authentically for ourselves and others, creating richer connections and a more meaningful life experience.
In the end, life is a series of moments, and by choosing to value and savor each one, we create a life that’s full—not just someday, but right now. So let go of “someday” and start embracing today. Take that step, express gratitude, and live for the now—because now is truly all we ever have.
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28 Years, 28 Lessons Taught By Life
The more life we live, the more lessons we learn on the way! Here are 28 important things you need to learn in life!
By: Deveney Marshall
It seems like just yesterday I was a little girl ready to embrace all of the many things life had to offer, so to think that I turned 28 last week is mind-boggling. Over the years, I’ve been blessed to have some incredible experiences, and of course, I’ve had some not-so-great ones as well. All in all, I’ve learned some important lessons along the way, and though I wish I could have avoided learning some of them, I wouldn’t be the woman I am today if I hadn’t had those experiences.
In honor of the 28 years I’ve been on this earth, I’ve listed 28 grand lessons life has taught me thus far below.
1. Be Yourself. (Everyone else is already taken.)
In life we can fall into the trap of thinking we need to be someone else to make it in this world, but I’ve learned the only thing you need to stand out is being unapologetically yourself.
2. Happiness comes from within.
A lot of people were conditioned to believe happiness is something that can only be created with the help of someone else or from material things, but I’m here to tell you that is very wrong. Genuine happiness comes for deep within you, and it can only be felt after self-reflection, self-work, and acceptance.
3. Whatever you put out into the universe, you will get back. (Whether it be good or negative energy.)
Karma is not a fictitious thing, it is very real, and what you display in this life will always come back to find you. Try to always put out the type of energy you want to receive from others.
4. Everything is not for everybody. (Just because something is the status quo, doesn’t mean you need to have that thing as well.)
In life, and especially in this day and age of social media, we all believe we have to have the same goals, lifestyles, and experiences but your life should be tailored to the person you are. You don’t have to partake in anything that doesn’t feel right to you.
5. It’s okay not to be perfect.
Thanks to social media it’s very easy for everyone to portray a picture perfect life, but this journey we call life has many ups and downs, and no one is immune to experiencing either one.
6. Stop worrying about having it all together. (You will figure it all out, in due time, and if you never figure it out that’s okay too.)
Your twenties are for learning, trial & error, and growing, you do not have to have every detail of your life perfectly put together. Everything will happen just as it’s supposed to.
7. If it doesn’t feel right within your soul do not do it.
Over the years I’ve had to learn to trust my intuition more than ever before, and one thing I can say is if you listen to it, it will never steer you wrong.
>> RELATED: Pursuit of Happiness: Where You Live Is A Key To Happiness
8. It’s okay to have different friends for different things. (Just don’t forget the people that have been there for you since day one.)
As my career grows, the friendships I have expanded as well. I now have industry friends, blogger friends, and of course my faithful friendship circle. They all play different roles and bring something different to my life. I know we’ve all been taught that having a multitude of friends isn’t good, but as I grow older I realize it’s necessary. It’s important to have different friends to go to for different aspects of your life.
9. Don’t push yourself into something you know you are not ready for.
I often see people allow themselves to be pushed in paths they know they aren’t ready to take yet. No one knows what’s best for you quite like you do. Listen to your intuition when it comes to the steps you want to take next in life.
10. Dreams do come true.
I’ve always been a person who believed dreams can come true, and over the last few years I’ve learned just how true that is. If you work hard and keep God first, everything you want in this life can become yours.
11. Take care of your body, and it will be good to you.
When you’re young, taking care of your health can be the last thing on your priority list. The sooner you care for your body by watching what you consume, you’ll immediately see a positive change within yourself.
12. Relationships are hard work and should be taken seriously.
A lot of people view relationships as something to do when there’s nothing to do, but they are not that simple. Real relationships take commitment, honesty, and two already complete individuals to have the best outcome. If you know you’re not ready to give that to someone, enjoy your own company and just casually date until you are.
13. Savor each and every moment of life.
None of us know how long we all will be on this earth, spend as much time enjoying your life as possible.
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14. Don’t allow society to determine who you’re supposed to be.
You have the right to be whoever you want to be in life whether it makes sense to others or not, remember that.
15. Surround yourself with beautiful, kindred souls.
The people you allow in your life will always have an affect on you as a person, make sure the individuals you allow into your spaces leave you feeling uplifted and empowered.
16. Your word is all you have.
I grew up being told ”your word is your bond.” Do not tell someone you are going to do something and don’t.
17. Be kind to your skin.
Taking care of your skin early on is a must, and the secret to remaining youthful forever. Make sure you exfoliate, moisturize, and drink lots of water.
18. Music makes everything in life better.
What you listen to has the power to turn any situation around, and set the entire tone for your life.
19. Don’t ask for respect, demand it.
Experience has taught me when you take yourself seriously, everyone else does also, don’t go around asking for respect from others, show why you deserve it instead.
20. Don’t force something that’s not meant to be.
When something is truly meant to be, it will naturally happen, and always fall right into place.
21. Take time to meditate every week.
Caring for your mental health is one of the most important things we can do for our survival. Do whatever makes you feel most centered on a weekly basis. If your soul is not well, your life will not be either.
22. Be grateful.
We tend to equate being grateful with remaining humble but I’m here to tell you no matter where you are in your life you are blessed. Never forget that.
>> RELATED: Benefits of Meditation: Practicing Stillness Is Good For The Body
23. You don’t know everything, and you never will.
Even the most highly accoladed scholars don’t know everything there is to know about life. Life is a constant journey of learning and evolving, and you should be doing both as long as you are breathing.
24. Know when to listen, and know when to disregard.
As a type a Virgo, I’m always “on it.” I’m one of those people that can gather all I need to know with just one glance and one listen, however over time I had to learn it is not wise to be this way. It’s okay to take heed to the advice of others and hear what they gathered from an experience as well. Do you have to negate what you believe? Not at all, but it’s important to listen to the viewpoints of others.
25. You will fail and you will be fine.
The older I become, the more I learn that failure is inevitable. Not everything will work out the way you envisioned and that’s okay, God usually has a better plan for you anyway.
26. Life is filled with an equal amount of ups and downs.
We’ve been conditioned to believe either a person can be one thing or the other, however, that is false. Just as people are a multitude of things, so is life. We will experience many emotions on this journey, both good and bad, and sometimes at the same time.
27. PRAY OFTEN.
Pray all day, every day. Even when you don’t feel a prayer is needed, pray. Prayer changes things.
28. God will always have your back, always.
God created each and every one of us for a specific reason. We all have purpose, and God will always be here to help us fulfill them. There isn’t a moment on this earth God is not there, you just have to learn to trust and believe that.
I hope the wisdom I’ve gained over the years helps you on your journey. Now ask yourself what lessons has life taught you through the years?
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Pursuit of Happiness: Where You Live Is A Key To Happiness
How many times have you heard somebody say that they aren’t really happy with where they live and just need a change of scenery? We discuss why where you live is key on your pursuit to happiness!
By: Alyssa Cole
Sometimes we get so caught up in day to day life to even have a moment to sit down and wonder what would life be like if we left the towns and cities that we have known for our whole lives. Some only dream of moving to better places and some simply hold back due to lack of comfort and knowledge in any other place but where they grew up. Comfort can be safe but dangerous at the same time for your state of happiness.
>> SEE ALSO: Following Your Own Path: Life Is Not One Size Fits All
Studies from the New England Journal Of Medicine, show that 70% of premature death stems from the environment one is in, lack health care access, and individual behaviors. Take that in for a second. 70%! That is a very high number. Many people may not think that where you live and health blend with each other but in fact it really does!
>> SEE ALSO: Faking the Funk: 7 Signs You're Dealing With Imposter Syndrome
How many times have you heard somebody say that they aren’t really happy with where they live and just need a change of scenery? Their hometown has little to offer in resources or employment opportunities? Even that they just simply need to move away and start a new journey? We hear these kinds of statements all the time and they are really signs that it’s time to take a leap of faith, especially if you find yourself saying these things all the time!
Did you know that according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the average American moves at least a dozen times in their lifetime? Now, why is that? I think that there are many answers to this question but one may agree that it’s because the average American doesn’t feel content with where they live and with more opportunities placed in front of them, come reasons to pack their car up and hit the road to the next city! Moving to a new town can be scary, but being willing to take a risk because it can really be worth it, especially if it affects your state of happiness.
>> SEE ALSO: The Art Of Being Bold: How To Exude Your Natural Confidence
Are you happy with where you live? Have you thought often about moving? I suggest to someone today that if you have been feeling in your spirit to move on from your city or small town, take the necessary steps to steps to change your life and put yourself in a stable financial situation to move forward and try out a new place. Always remember that materialistic items will never make you as happy as solid self care and self love, so make sure to put your happiness and health first! The pursuit of happiness is a journey so don't be afraid to take leaps of faith!
