If you continuously dwell on the future and the past, how will you find inner peace and contentment in the present?
There are times when your confidence wanes. You find yourself disappointed in who you are and how your life is moving along. Unfortunately, one of the symptoms of many mental health disorders is the disappearance of liking yourself.
But then the sun begins to shine through. The symptoms go back into hiding. You move into recovery. However, if you begin comparing your life to others, you’ll never really be content with what you have or who you’ve become.
Remember, true peace and happiness comes from within, not from material things and not from others.
Also, you can get so wrapped up in worrying about the future or dwelling on the past. You let today go by without paying much attention to your everyday happiness. Below are strategies to find peace and contentment in the present moment. Here’s the bonus–all these things are free for the taking. Do your best to embrace one or two each week:
- Walk in nature and really listen to the sounds surrounding you
- Stop to truly look at a flower as it begins to blossom
- Call a family member or friend you miss talking to
- Drop by to see a neighbor who doesn’t get out much
- Write a love note to yourself and read it a week later
- Sit outside and watch the sun go down or come up
Reflection Question
How will you begin your peace and contentment journey?
About the Author
Carol A. Kivler is a nationally recognized mental health speaker, international executive coach/trainer, and author. Most importantly, she is a passionate consumer advocate for mental health. Carol is available for speaking engagements in the U.S and internationally. Email or call Carol at (609) 882-8988.
