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The right mindset is an indispensable tool in the quest for self-actualization. There are three pillars of the right mindset: a positive attitude, presence in the moment, and gratitude for what one has.
Positivity is not a question of being Pollyannaish, but of seeing the positive potential in any situation. The most successful people are differentiated from the rest of the pack by their ability to see opportunity in just about any failure. A setback for them, is not a setback, but a new set of opportunities. Even in the worst situation we have control over how we react. This, not blinding out the reality of adversity, is what is meant by positive thinking.
Presence is a powerful tool not only to transform the self but to best one’s adversaries. It was the position of Greco-Armenian mystic, G.I. Gurdjieff, that the majority of people were sleeping the majority of the time. How true and how sad. The present moment is the only moment that we have. How often are you living in either regret for the past or worry for the future rather than in the present moment?
Finally, gratitude is about remembering what we have. What, after all, is all the good work we do if we can’t reflect on what we have?
Here are some quotes that will help you to practice these three pillars every day.
Quotes About Living in the Present
Amit Ray
“If you want to conquer the anxiety of life, live in the moment, live in the breath.”
Amit Ray’s quote encapsulates the essence of mindfulness and presence as a means to overcome the anxiety that often accompanies life’s uncertainties. It advocates for embracing the present moment and focusing on the breath as a way to anchor oneself in the here and now. By directing attention to the immediate experience, Ray suggests that individuals can cultivate a sense of calm and inner peace, reducing the grip of anxiety and worry about the past or future. His words inspire a mindful approach to living, emphasizing the transformative power of being fully engaged in each breath and moment of existence.
Carl Von Clausewitz
“There are very few men – and they are the exceptions – who are able to think and feel beyond the present moment.”
Carl Von Clausewitz’s quote highlights the rarity of individuals who possess the ability to transcend immediate circumstances and consider broader perspectives. It suggests that most people are constrained by their focus on the present moment, unable to engage in deeper thought or emotion beyond the here and now. By acknowledging these exceptions, Clausewitz underscores the importance of cultivating a capacity for long-term vision and insight. His words serve as a reminder of the value of foresight and introspection in navigating the complexities of life and decision-making.
Unknown
“You’re The Author. Forget The Past. Write whatever you want in life and it will be the truth.”
– Unknown
This quote speaks to the power of personal agency and the ability to shape one’s own destiny. It encourages individuals to let go of past limitations and instead focus on actively creating their future. By embracing the role of authorship in their lives, people can write their own narratives and determine their own truths. The quote inspires a mindset of empowerment and possibility, reminding individuals that they have the ability to manifest their desires through intentional action and belief in their own potential.
American proverb
“Fish are the last to know they’re in water.”
– American proverb
The American proverb suggests that individuals are often unaware of the environment or circumstances that surround them, especially when they are immersed in them from birth or for an extended period. In this case, the metaphorical “water” represents the pervasive and familiar aspects of life that are taken for granted or overlooked. The quote serves as a reminder to critically examine one’s surroundings and perspectives, as what may seem normal or unremarkable may actually have a profound influence on one’s experiences and perceptions.
G.I. Gurdjieff
“Awakening is possible only for those who seek it and want it, for those who are ready to struggle with themselves and work on themselves for a very long time and very persistently in order to attain it.”
G.I. Gurdjieff’s quote underscores the transformative journey of self-awareness and personal growth. It suggests that true awakening or enlightenment is not easily attained but requires a dedicated commitment to introspection and self-improvement. Gurdjieff emphasizes the importance of actively seeking and desiring awakening, as well as the willingness to engage in ongoing struggle and perseverance. The quote inspires individuals to embark on a profound inner journey, recognizing that the path to awakening demands patience, persistence, and a deep-seated readiness to confront and overcome personal challenges.
Colin Powell
“Always focus on the front windshield and not the review mirror.”
Colin Powell’s quote advises individuals to prioritize looking forward rather than dwelling on the past. By likening life to driving a car and emphasizing the importance of focusing on the “front windshield,” Powell suggests that progress and success are best achieved by concentrating on future opportunities and goals rather than being preoccupied with past mistakes or setbacks represented by the “review mirror.” The quote inspires a forward-thinking mindset, encouraging individuals to maintain optimism, resilience, and a proactive approach to navigating life’s journey.
Unknown
“It isn’t the burdens of today that drive us mad. It is the regrets over yesterday and the fear of tomorrow. Regret and fear are twin thieves who rob us of today.”
– Unknown
This quote poignantly highlights the detrimental effects of dwelling on the past and worrying about the future. It suggests that it is not the current challenges and responsibilities that cause distress, but rather the remorse over past actions and the apprehension of what tomorrow may bring. By personifying regret and fear as “twin thieves,” the quote vividly illustrates how these emotions steal away the joy and potential of the present moment. The quote serves as a reminder to let go of regrets and fears, allowing individuals to fully embrace and appreciate the opportunities and experiences of today.
George Harrison
“It’s being here now that’s important. There’s no past and there’s no future. Time is a very misleading thing. All there is ever, is the now. We can gain experience from the past, but we can’t relive it; and we can hope for the future, but we don’t know if there is one.”
George Harrison’s quote encapsulates the essence of mindfulness and the importance of living in the present moment. He emphasizes that the past is unchangeable and the future is uncertain, making the present the only reality. By dismissing the illusion of time and highlighting the perpetual nature of “the now,” Harrison encourages individuals to focus on experiencing life fully in the present rather than dwelling on what has passed or worrying about what is yet to come. The quote serves as a profound reminder to cherish each moment and find fulfillment in the here and now.
Dalai Lama
“There are only two days in the year that nothing can be done. One is called Yesterday and the other is called Tomorrow.”
The Dalai Lama’s quote succinctly encapsulates the essence of mindfulness and the importance of living in the present moment. It emphasizes that dwelling on the past (Yesterday) or worrying about the future (Tomorrow) is futile since neither can be changed or controlled. By highlighting the significance of the present, the quote inspires individuals to focus their energy and attention on the opportunities and possibilities of today. It serves as a powerful reminder to embrace the present moment fully and make the most of each day.
G. K. Chesterton
“We are perishing for want of wonder, not for want of wonders.”
G.K. Chesterton’s quote poetically captures the essence of curiosity and appreciation for the world around us. It suggests that humanity is not lacking in extraordinary phenomena to marvel at, but rather in the ability to perceive the wonder inherent in everyday life. By emphasizing the importance of cultivating a sense of wonder, Chesterton highlights the transformative power of curiosity and appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the world. The quote serves as a reminder to pause, observe, and find joy in the small marvels that surround us each day.
Seneca
“True happiness is to enjoy the present, without anxious dependence upon the future, not to amuse ourselves with either hopes or fears but to rest satisfied with what we have, which is sufficient, for he that is so wants nothing. The greatest blessings of mankind are within us and within our reach. A wise man is content with his lot, whatever it may be, without wishing for what he has not.”
Seneca’s quote encapsulates the Stoic philosophy of finding contentment and true happiness in the present moment. It emphasizes the importance of embracing the present without being consumed by worries about the future or regrets about the past. Seneca suggests that genuine fulfillment comes from appreciating what one has, rather than constantly seeking external validation or material possessions. By cultivating a mindset of gratitude and contentment, individuals can find peace and satisfaction in their current circumstances, regardless of their external conditions. The quote inspires a shift in perspective towards finding inner tranquility and recognizing the abundance of blessings that lie within oneself.
Leo Tolstoy
“If a man decides that it is better for him to resist the demands of a present feeble love, in the name of another, of a future manifestation, he deceives either himself or other people, and loves no one but himself. Future love does not exist. Love is a present activity only. The man who does not manifest love in the present has not love.”
Leo Tolstoy’s quote challenges the notion of deferring love to a future time or person, asserting that genuine love is only expressed in the present moment. He argues that prioritizing a hypothetical future love over a current one is a form of self-deception, as love is an active and immediate expression. Tolstoy contends that true love is manifested through present actions and emotions, and any notion of future love is illusory. By emphasizing the importance of being fully present in relationships and expressing love in the here and now, Tolstoy highlights the authenticity and depth of genuine affection.
Henry David Thoreau
“You must live in the present, launch yourself on every wave, find your eternity in each moment. Fools stand on their island of opportunities and look toward another land. There is no other land; there is no other life but this.”
Henry David Thoreau’s quote eloquently encapsulates the importance of living fully in the present moment and seizing the opportunities it presents. He urges individuals to embrace the ebb and flow of life, finding fulfillment and eternity in each passing moment. Thoreau contrasts this approach with the futile pursuit of imagined opportunities elsewhere, emphasizing that the only true life and opportunities exist in the present reality. By urging readers to immerse themselves in the richness of the present, Thoreau inspires a mindset of mindfulness and appreciation for the beauty and possibilities of each fleeting instant.
Karl Lagerfeld
“People who say that yesterday was better than today are ultimately devaluing their own existence.”
Karl Lagerfeld’s quote challenges the notion of romanticizing the past at the expense of appreciating the present. He suggests that individuals who believe yesterday was superior to today are undermining their own worth and potential for happiness. Lagerfeld implies that such sentiments disregard the richness and opportunities of the present moment, diminishing the value of one’s current existence. By emphasizing the importance of embracing the present and finding fulfillment in the here and now, Lagerfeld inspires a mindset of gratitude and optimism for the possibilities of today.
Albert Camus
“Real generosity towards the future lies in giving all to the present.”
Albert Camus’ quote encapsulates the idea that true generosity towards the future comes from fully investing in and appreciating the present moment. He suggests that by giving our all to the present, we are laying the foundation for a better future. Camus emphasizes the importance of living intentionally and authentically, rather than deferring actions or investments solely for future gains. This quote serves as a reminder to focus on making the most of each moment, as it is in the present that we have the power to shape our future.
Abraham Lincoln
“Folks are usually about as happy as they make their minds up to be.”
Abraham Lincoln’s quote succinctly captures the essence of personal agency and mindset in determining one’s level of happiness. It suggests that individuals have the power to choose their own happiness by deciding how they perceive and approach life’s circumstances. Lincoln implies that happiness is not solely determined by external factors, but rather by the attitude and mindset one adopts. This quote serves as a reminder that cultivating a positive outlook and making a conscious decision to be happy can significantly impact one’s overall sense of well-being.