Here and Now

Hey Steemers,

I want to talk about the potential of Now, this esoteric state we hear so much about and are encouraged to do so much with. I don't mean to sing the same old tune, but... get ready for some familiar music ;)

I want to discuss "Now" in relation to goals, progress, and starting over. There are many arbitrary time markers that people use as motivation to initiate new goals and "start fresh". New Year's Eve, Sunday evenings, the beginning of Spring. Each of these moments heralds in hoards of high- aspiring humans, ready to change their lives. There is nothing inherently wrong with this, except that it discredits the notion that we can ALWAYS change.

There is power in each present moment. It is potent and driving... allow it to be so. You can eat healthier, be kinder, or try harder on a MONDAY AFTERNOON. Or whenever floats your boat. Deliberate change is no less valid when it occurs at a random time, nor will it be harder to achieve. I would argue that sweeping change is easier when we see every second as an opportunity to move in its direction.

I'll delve into a hypothetical. Let's say that I've set a goal to feel healthier and less bloated by eating more plants and drinking more water. I'd like to consume less processed items as well. I'm grinding through my week, feeling good about my choices. Wednesday comes around and my friends are planning lunch at a taqueria. I choose to go, and return to work feeling a bit weighed down by salty tortilla chips. First of all- there's nothing wrong with this. Enjoyment is a crucial part of sustainable progress! However, I need not wait until tomorrow to return to healthy habits. I'll drink extra water during the day, and make myself a loaded salad for dinner. I will not wait until tomorrow- "a new day"- to continue with forward strides.

This philosophy both holds us accountable and sets us free. The accountability lies in the fact that there are no "freebies". All time counts, and saying "fuck it until [X]" is not an option. Time is an infinitely valuable resource; why limit the amount we spend aspiring and progressing? And the freedom... Oh, friends, the freedom. No single decision or moment has the power to define you. You are capable of change, day to day and moment to moment. Your goals start now... or five minutes from now, or whenever you want them to.

I challenge you to be aware of who you are to and for this world. Celebrate the good, and strive to make the bad better. It's all any of us can do.