# The Balance of Present and Future: Why Mindfulness Matters
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Chapter 1: The Dilemma of Future Focus
Constantly dwelling on what lies ahead can undermine our ability to enjoy the present moment.
Photo by alevision.co on Unsplash
The Roman philosopher Seneca once cautioned his friend against the folly of worrying prematurely. He observed, “Those things you fear as if they were impending may never happen.” Seneca was likely aware that this struggle was a common human experience. We are, by nature, inclined to worry. Unlike many living beings that remain anchored in the present, humans have the remarkable ability to foresee future possibilities.
Experts refer to this mental ability as episodic foresight, which allows us to plan and prepare for upcoming events. According to a 2015 study published in Trends in Cognitive Sciences, this foresight helps us seize opportunities and mitigate risks.
"It’s comforting to think that everything you do is leading up to some moment-of-truth in the future," the authors noted, suggesting that the belief in a future where everything falls into place can be very appealing.
Moreover, we not only envision future scenarios but also experience emotions related to them. This emotional engagement can be beneficial; it drives us to take action. However, when this focus on the future becomes excessive, it can lead to anxiety and destabilization.
Section 1.1: The Dark Side of Future Thoughts
Research published in The Gerontologist highlights that anxiety and depression are often rooted in "future-oriented thought patterns." Individuals grappling with these issues tend to envision more negative outcomes and potential threats.
Even if your concerns about the future don't escalate to a clinical level, they can still detract from your overall happiness and satisfaction.
For instance, during a recent ski trip with my children, I was eager for the day but found myself distracted by thoughts of dinner plans and work obligations looming ahead. My mind raced to various future events — from the holidays to birthdays — overshadowing the joy of the moment. It often feels as if my present experiences are merely a prologue to future endeavors.
Oliver Burkeman, author of Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals, points out this paradox. He explains that while future-oriented thinking can induce stress, it can also provide a sense of comfort. "It’s comforting to think that everything you do is leading up to some moment-of-truth in the future," he writes. Burkeman further emphasizes that this focus can distract us from the reality of our current lives.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Pitfalls of Future Aspirations
Burkeman highlights a powerful insight: "You can avoid the fact that you’re here — that this is it, not a dress rehearsal." This resonates with Annie Dillard's famous observation that how we spend our days reflects how we spend our lives. For many, this realization can be both illuminating and unsettling.
The allure of future goals can lead us to believe that the only way to measure a day’s worth is by its proximity to our aspirations. However, research indicates that our brains often misjudge the emotional weight of future events, overstating the impact of negative experiences while underestimating the significance of our daily lives.
Section 1.2: Strategies for Mindfulness
To foster a healthier balance between present and future, it's vital to cultivate mindfulness. Mindfulness practices can support us in appreciating the present moment, even if we don't engage in formal training. Gratitude exercises, such as reflecting on the positive aspects of our lives each day, can also be beneficial.
Limiting exposure to distressing news that prompts anxiety about the future can further help us remain grounded in the now. Burkeman advises against viewing the present merely as a stepping stone toward future goals.
"It can feel as though the only measure of whether an hour is well-spent is if it gets you closer to a future goal," he reflects. "That would be fine if it were compatible with living a meaningful life, but it isn’t."
Chapter 2: Embracing the Now
In this video, "Looking Back from the Future to Help Us Look Ahead," we explore how reflecting on our past can inform a healthier perspective on the future.
The second video, "Holding On Can Hold You Back | by Jay Shetty," discusses the importance of letting go and embracing the present moment for a more fulfilling life.