How would you live differently if you knew how much time you had left?
What would you focus on?
Who'd you spend more time socialising with?
What you do differently or start doing?
In an era where to-do lists and schedules are the norm, we need to make sure we're using our time effectively. We’re bombarded with the number of things that we must achieve at a certain age, the many projects we must start or just merely trying to keep up with societal expectations on millennials.
I’ve found myself worrying about the future, what my relationships will look like and whether I’ll have enough money in the bank to feel secure? I sometimes wonder whether I'll ever step into my dream job? (I'm sure you can relate to either one of these.)
It's easy to worry about the future but living in the present is a precious thing that God intends for us to have. Whether it’s doing a simple task, completing your daily duties at home or work, going for a walk or just spending time with family, choosing to stay present can reap many benefits.
HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF TODAY
Here’s a six ways you can do to stay present and find fulfilment in your day.
1. Become mindful of how you use your time.
Keep track of this by using useful apps like Google calendar or to give you an oversight of how you’re utilising your time. I’ll link a downloaded print of paper schedule where you write down your to do activities to keep track.
2. Spend devotional time with God daily.
A verse that I aim to live by is Matthew 6:33 – “Seek first His Kingdom and righteousness and all these things will be added to you.” The chapter of this verse is focused on not worrying, rather looking to God as the source and provider of all your needs.
That’s why choosing to put God first in your morning routine can have tremendous effects on your day. You’ll find that the day feels longer, more fulfilled with sprinkled miracles along the way.
3. Write down words to live by daily.
I came across this while listening to a podcast by Craig Groeschel.
Writing down words to live by are affirmations that you speak out and declare every day to transform your thinking. If you’re like me, most days can start out dragged, exhausted with no energy to do anything.
However, writing down empowering words can change your day and help change your perspective in certain areas in your life. You can centre your words in areas you need improve; for example, gaining more confidence, choosing to live a healthier lifestyle or improving your financial situation.
You can choose words such as;
I'm equipped for this task
God has given me everything I need for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3)
I wake up early and provide for my family
I dedicate time to improving my skills and talents
I'm clothed with strength and dignity (Proverbs 31:25a)
4. Enjoy the process while you’re in the waiting
This can apply in any area of your life. Whether it’s paying off debt, changing careers, saving for a house, getting married or meeting that special person. Enjoying the process allows you to learn from what the season you're currently in is teaching you. You might discover that the long wait to a new career improved perseverance and patience in your life. You also find new strategic ways of getting to your goals faster, without stress and worry.
Remember peace is a choice.
5. Find a hobby that brings you joy
Let’s face it, all work and no play can cause stress in our lives. It’s good to have goals and achieve them but making time for your hobbies can reduce “feelings of anxiety, irritability and tiredness.” Find a hobby that is interesting to you without worrying about what others will think. It’s a valuable tool that can increase your interaction with others and help you relax after a long day at work.
What hobby will you pick up today?
6. Make time to check in on friends and family
We often forget that most of what it means to make each day count includes spending time with friends and family.
They help to enrich your life, bring happiness and joy when celebrating a special moment or help you cope with stress.
I would often joke with a friend that friends are like FREE therapists. You can vent, pour out your feelings from a stressful day or maybe a bad breakup and you wouldn’t spend a penny.
The benefit is that you’ll receive encouragement as well as give it back when they’re also in need.
What areas are you missing in your everyday moments that God is speaking to you to start now?
Turn these into powerful moments and make the most of today.
My encouragement is to fill your life with moments that bring you joy.
Do you enjoy baking?
Working out?
Crafts or playing instruments?
Look at the space in the calendar and find time to do the things you love.
I’ll share more on how you can create a schedule that brings peace and contentment, but until then please feel free to comment, like and share this to a friend if you found it useful.
Lots of love,
Annette
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