Joseph Arangio
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How to Unlock the Power of Now
7 strategies to life your best life.
by JOSEPH ARANGIO
You may often find yourself caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, planning for a future that seems to slip away faster than you can imagine.
The profound significance of seizing the present moment is something that’s been resonating with me lately.
I told our kids to live in the moment, and now they think “bedtime” is just a suggestion.
I want to share some personal insights gained from a recent family getaway to Woodloch. The experience reminded me of the fleeting nature of time and the urgent need to pursue your dreams and passions now, not tomorrow.
I’ve always been an advocate for a healthy, balanced lifestyle. But even with all the knowledge about fitness, nutrition, and well-being, there are moments when life throws a curveball to remind you of the impermanence of time.
My moment of realization occurred on a recent journey through the beautiful mountain landscapes, awe-inspiring waterfalls, flourishing woodlands, and meandering rivers of Northeastern Pennsylvania.
As I stood on the edge of a rugged cliff, overlooking an incredible waterfall, I couldn’t help but feel a surge of gratitude for the beauty surrounding me. However, amidst the stunning scenery, I realized how easy it is to get lost in the routine of daily life, pushing your dreams, passions, and (oftentimes) your health to some indistinct future.
Why Your Present Moment is the Only Reality
It’s important to live in alignment with your nature. This goes beyond just physical health; it extends to your mental and emotional well-being.
Without getting too deep, the present moment is the only reality you have. As a result, putting off your dreams for an uncertain future means missing out on the richness of life.
During our outdoor adventure, we did something called “forest bathing,” which is like a mindful hike.
I made a conscious decision to embrace the present, to savor every moment, and to not let life slip by unnoticed.
Perhaps you tried living in the moment, but the moment included paying bills and doing laundry. It’s not about neglecting responsibility or abandoning long-term goals; it’s about finding a balance and understanding that the journey is as important as the destination.
Time is a Non-Renewable Resource
One thing that the hiking trip made crystal clear to me is that time is a non-renewable resource. You can’t earn it back, buy more of it, or trade it for something else.
Time is the essence of your existence, and once it’s gone, it’s gone for good. So, why wait for a specific year or milestone to pursue your dreams?
Many folks, over the age of 40, often say, “I’ll do strength training when I’m not so busy,” or “I’ll get healthy when the time is right.”
The truth is, there is never a perfect time to create health independence. Life is messy, unpredictable, and beautifully imperfect. Instead of waiting for the stars to align, seize the present moment, and start living the life you’ve always imagined.
Let me share a personal anecdote from that hiking trip that struck a chord with me.
As I wandered through the old-growth forest, I stumbled upon a small waterfall tucked away from the trail. Intrigued, I decided to check it out. The water’s gentle cascade over the smooth stones harmonized with the rustle of leaves. There, standing amid nature’s embrace, a profound calm washed over me.
Listening to the rustling leaves and the gentle murmur of the nearby stream, I was reminded that pursuing your dreams is not about waiting for the perfect conditions.
Think about the times you delayed certain pursuits, thinking there would be a better time in the future. The truth is, life is unpredictable, and the only time you have control over is now.
7 Strategies for Taking Action Now:
You tried living in the moment, but then the moment wanted you to assemble IKEA furniture.
Don’t let your ship sink waiting for the “right time.” Here’s how to embrace the urgency of living your best life right now.
1. Set clear goals
Define your dreams and passions clearly. What is it that you truly want to achieve or experience? Oftentimes poor health will hold you back from experiencing life to its fullest.
Whether it’s losing weight, quitting alcohol, or prioritizing exercise, having a clear goal will give you direction and motivation.
2. Break It Down
Break your big goals into smaller, manageable tasks. This makes the journey less overwhelming and allows you to take small, consistent steps towards your dreams. Remember, it’s the small actions that lead to significant changes.
3. Create a Vision Board
Visualize your dreams by creating a vision board. Include pictures, quotes, and anything else that represents your goals. Maybe you want to get stronger for a skiing. Perhaps you want to leave a legacy for your grandkids or future grandkids. This tangible reminder will help you stay focused on what truly matters to you.
4. Embrace imperfection
Understand that waiting for the perfect conditions often leads to inaction. Is fear hurting your health? Embrace imperfection and take the first step, even if it’s a small one like drinking an 8-ounce glass of water when you wake up. You’ll learn and adapt along the way, and that’s part of the beauty of the journey.
5. Prioritize self-care
Taking action requires a healthy mind and body. Prioritize self-care by incorporating activities that bring you joy and relaxation. A well-nourished and rested individual is better equipped to avoid mental roadblocks and pursue passions.
6. Connect with like-minded individuals
Surround yourself with people who inspire and support your dreams. Building a community of like-minded individuals provides encouragement and valuable insights. Share your journey with others and learn from their experiences.
7. Celebrate progress, not perfection
Celebrate your achievements along the way. Acknowledge the progress you make, no matter how small. This positive reinforcement will keep you motivated and focused on the present journey.
In the fast-paced world we live in, it’s easy to get caught up in the race towards an undefined future. The family trip to the forest was a reminder for me, and I hope it serves as a wake-up call for you too.
Life is a precious gift, and every moment is an opportunity to embrace the present, live authentically, and pursue your dreams.
Summary:
Don’t fall into the trap of waiting for the “right time” – that elusive moment that may never come. Instead, choose to live intentionally, making the most of the time you have. As you embark on your journey, remember that the present moment is a gift, and it’s up to you to unwrap it and savor the richness within. Embrace the now, for it is the only reality that truly matters.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Joseph Arangio
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ABOUT WOODLOCH…
Woodloch; a story about bringing family together…
Woodloch has the distinct honor of being voted the #1 family resort by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards as well as being rated in the top 1% of properties worldwide on TripAdvisor. Conveniently located within a few hours’ drive from New York and Philadelphia, a scenic trip to Woodloch can be achieved on less than one tank of gas. Woodloch vacations are built on the concept of “togethering,” or bringing loved ones together, spending time with one another, and creating memories to last a lifetime. Through a unique array of home-grown, team-building type activities for families, a nostalgic, back-to-basics environment, pristine natural surroundings and a truly unique brand of hospitality, guests leave Woodloch with a renewed sense of connection with their own families.
