How Does Being Present Lead To Self-Improvement?

By Therese Donnelly

This quote from the late Robert S de Ropp, found in his book "Self-Completion", reveals our usual way of being:

"The full awareness of my own being is given to me only now and then. Why? Because much of the time, I am lost in fantasy. I am definitely not here now. I am wondering around in the past or dreaming about the future, or thinking about the future, or thinking about something, speculating about something, talking to someone who is not even there, imagining, indulging. What a way to live!"

But there is another way ...

Every day, at any time, and in any place, it is possible to be in the here-and-now just by remembering to be.

Being present leads to self-improvement because it stops the loss of vital energy from our bodies. Each morning, we wake-up with only a limited amount of energy to see us through the day, so it's important not to waste this precious resource by indulging in speculation and fantasies.

Self-improvement isn't simply about acquiring new skills such as becoming more confident or better at conversation (important though these are) it's also about becoming more than you are by being present and concentrating vital energy within your self so that your inner strength increases.

When we are being present to the moment, we experience life more deeply than if we are sleep-walking through the day, living in imagination about things in the future or indulging ourselves with memories from the past.

You can experience being present by becoming aware of your body right now. Use all your senses to experience the moment ...

* What sounds can you hear both close by and further away?
* What colors can you see around you?
* Is there an aroma or fragrance in the air?
* If you're eating or drinking something, what does it really taste like?
* Experience the pressure of the chair you're sitting on against your body.
* Feel your feet inside your shoes, and the contact of your clothes on your skin.

When practiced regularly, being present creates subtle and positive changes in us and makes us feel more focused, alert and alive.

©2007 The author has a life-long interest in self-knowledge and self-improvement. For more information visit Self-Improvement101.com and claim your FREE e-book of Inspirational Quotes. You are welcome to use this article provided the active link within this signature box is included.

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