There is a section dedicated to living in the ‘present moment’ in both self-help and what is referred to as positive psychology.
Don’t get me wrong; there are benefits to being in the present instead of constantly ruminating on the past or being fixated on the future.
But being in the NOW means more people have no direction in life, feel depressed and anxious, waste time and money, get intoxicated, are spoiled in pleasures, and feel empty.
If the present moment isn’t the answer, then what is?
The Austrian psychiatrist Viktor Frankl developed the profound psychological theory of logotherapy, which describes a search for life’s meaning by hoping for something in the future. Logotherapy is part of existential and humanistic psychology theories.
Therefore, it is essential to balance remaining in the present moment and, more importantly, focus on something for the future. And don’t forget to embrace the past as a motivational tool to steer you forward.
Life is a sum of your choices; this was famously quoted by the existential philosopher Albert Camus. I personally believe that delayed gratification and finding a purpose is the key to a sustained level of happiness, especially when steering the emotions toward good personal values.
Life is precious, not short
We value the things we can’t purchase, like the relationships with the people we care/love most, with the small joys in life, friendships, family and those special moments. So, my only advice would be to let go of grudges, agree to disagree, and value the time with whatever you care about most. Remember the people that really matter will be there with you in your future self.