If you are depressed you are living in the past. If you are anxious you are living in the future. If you are at peace you are living in the present. – Lao Tzu
I am very guilty of living in the future. So you can only imagine my anxiety on a daily basis. I constantly question myself about my future plans…
What job will I pursue?
Where will I live?
Will I be able to live comfortably with my salary?
These questions are normal for a graduating senior, but I have learned to somewhat control my anxiety by doing these things.
- Practicing breathing techniques
This is always my go-to method, whether I’m stressed about school or experiencing road rage. - Making to-do lists (for everything)
These really help me get organized so that I can visually see what needs to get done. My brain is usually all over the place and I have to write things down to narrow my train of thought and priorities. - Spending time with my friends/loved ones
Being around people I love really helps put things into perspective and gives me a chance to relax. - Eliminating things from my life that distract me from living in the moment
It’s important to notice when you are doing things for the past or the future. Try not to let those things weigh too heavy on your mind. I recently realized that Instagram was one of those things, and got rid of my account.
What methods do you use to keep yourself at peace and in the now?
