Being present where you are is truly a gift. I know, I know that was a super cheesy way to start this post but sometimes the truth is like that: cringe worthy and funny.
The gift of presence is something we all want and crave. The world is full of distractions, chaos, and fillers..but what is needed is connection, warmth, and love.
In motherhood there's always a spinning plate in the air, or multiple, and as a mama I know that being a more present person is a huge priority for me. Not just because the holidays have arrived, but for always.
Life is short, and I don't want it to speed by in a blur. Instead, knowing it will speed by, I want to enjoy the moments that are given to me. So, I'm sharing three ways to become more present this holiday. And hey, if you want to practice them and wrap yourself in a bow and say your the gift...by all means take a photo and tag me on social media!
3 Ways To Become More Present:
1. Imagine being on the other side: Honestly, I HIGHLY dislike when someone is on their phone and we are having a conversation. BUT…I have been that person too! SMH
So, way number 1 to be more present: Don't be that guy or gal...
Don't be the person scrolling while you're having a conversation with someone IN PERSON.
2. Love where you are: A problem with having a mind that never stops is the constant struggle of where you are and where you want/need to be next. How about we THOROUGHLY enjoy where we are and what we are doing in the moment, so that we can move on confidently to the next thing guilt free because where we were-we just gave our full attention.
3. The present is all we have: My aunt passed away on recently…Lots I can say here, but what I want the news to show you is that death is inevitable and life is SHORT.
Right NOW is all we have..tomorrow is not guaranteed..let's live for the now.
I know these are easier said than done. (Trust me when I say that I'm preaching to myself.)
So instead of giving you 3 ways and sending you on your way, I'll give you some ideas on how to put some ACTION behind them.
-Set boundaries on your phone: Through apps that lock you out or by physically putting your phone in another room while your with your family or have guests over.
-Phone basket: I've always wanted to do this when my big family comes over.! Having everyone put their phones in a basket during our hang out. Maybe, I'll bring this up on Thanksgiving!
-Start a gratitude list: I write 5 things I'm thankful for every morning and it helps me stay centered and focused on what's most important…my family and my faith.
-Have a conversation with your kids: This depends on their ages, but tell your kids your plans. That for the next hour you are playing with them (full presence given) and then the next hour after that you have to get some work done. They WILL understand, and that hour of quality attention will feel like 10 hours of it.
No matter where you are in your “present” journey..we all want more of it. I pray these ways + actions help get you one step closer to the gift that presence is for those around you AND yourself!
Xoxo,
Stephanie
"Your I am doing my best too" friend