7 Ways to Live in the Moment

Prioritizing the Present

Living in the moment with my son at the
Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado.

What Does It Mean to Live in the Moment?

Living in the moment means focusing fully on the present, letting go of past regrets and future worries. It’s about savoring experiences, connecting deeply with people, and appreciating life as it happens.

For me, that lesson came during my first cross-country Jeep Adventure Jeep adventure in 2012. As my kids grew into their own adult lives, I realized how precious each moment with them had become. That shift taught me the gift of letting go and being present.

👉 Related: Empty Nest: Evolution of Motherhood

My 7 Ways to Live in the Moment

1. Smile More

A simple smile can reset your mood and connect you to others instantly. It’s a reminder to stay lighthearted, even in stressful moments.

2. Stop Worrying About Tomorrow

The future is uncertain. Focus on what you can do today, and release what’s outside your control.

3. Always Move Forward

Don’t dwell on the past. Each new day is an opportunity to grow, reset, and take small steps toward what matters.

4. Pay Attention to the Small Things

Slow down. Notice the laughter of your kids, the taste of your morning coffee, or the view on your drive. Life is full of overlooked joys.

5. Practice Gratitude

Gratitude turns ordinary moments into extraordinary ones. Write down 3 things you’re thankful for each day.

6. Let Go of the To-Do List Pressure

Your laundry can wait. Your dishes can wait. But time with loved ones doesn’t come back. Release the need to finish everything “right now.”

7. Disconnect from Technology

Take breaks from screens. Put your phone down during family meals, Jeep trips, or hikes. Presence beats scrolling.

Ben & I at Zapata Falls
savoring the moment together. 

Embracing the Present

Living in the moment is about conscious awareness:

• Drive slower, eat slower, and breathe deeper.

• Appreciate nature whenever possible.

• Focus on the people around you—you never know when it might be your last moment with them.

This isn’t easy. It requires practice and “brain re-training.” But once you taste the freedom of presence, you won’t want to go back.

FAQ: Living in the Moment

Q: Why is living in the moment so hard?
A: Our brains are wired to multitask and plan. It takes conscious practice to slow down, but over time, presence becomes a habit.

Q: How can I start practicing presence?
A: Begin small—pause before meals, smile, or take a deep breath when you feel rushed. Build from there.

Q: Is living in the moment the same as mindfulness?
A: They overlap. Mindfulness is a practice of awareness; living in the moment is applying that awareness to everyday life.

Final Reflection

My journey to living in the moment has been anything but perfect—I’m still learning every day. But my Jeep adventures, faith, and time with my kids have shown me this truth: life is too short to rush through.

Smile. Slow down. Be present. Because these moments? They’re the ones you’ll cherish forever.