Staying Present in The Wild World Within
A wild world exists in our minds, often pulling us away from the here and now. I was reminded of this the other day while getting my hair done. As I looked at myself in the mirror, I noticed how calm and friendly my face seemed, with warm eyes and a relaxed expression. Yet behind that peaceful exterior, my mind was buzzing with chatter. Random thoughts and stories were swirling, some rooted in past events, others imagining futures that didn’t even exist. I was very far from the present.
Without realizing it, my mind was drifting between past memories and future possibilities, clearly running its own show.
But in that brief moment of self-observation, just looking at my own face, everything went quiet. I had pulled myself back into being in the present moment.
Why It Matters
An untamed mind can take us on an emotional rollercoaster, while often based on nothing real. Thoughts become stories, and those stories shape how we feel, sometimes creating stress, anxiety, fear, or sadness out of thin air.
The beautiful part? We have a choice.
I now play a little game with myself: “Catch the mind.” When I notice it drifting, I gently bring it back. But staying present isn’t always easy. So, what helps?
What’s Worked for Me
For me, meditation and exercise are key. Sometimes I do both. I also regularly check in with myself and take rest days when I need them. The important thing is to do these practices because they feel good, and not out of obligation.
This rhythm has helped me stay grounded, clear-headed, and emotionally balanced. My mind still wanders, but now I notice it before it spirals.
And no, the goal isn’t to have a blank mind. It’s more like learning to rein in a wild horse—redirecting that energy into something purposeful, like learning, planning, or finishing something important.
How to Start Managing Your Mind
Begin by observing your thoughts. Ask yourself:
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- Do I often dwell on the past, replaying memories or old stories?
- Do I frequently imagine future scenarios?
- How do these thoughts make me feel? Energized? Hopeful? Or anxious, angry, sad?
- Are any thought patterns repetitive or pointing to something unresolved?
- If you catch yourself spiraling into negative scenarios, try this: say “Stop” or “Change” in your mind and gently swap the thought with a more positive or empowering one.
You Deserve Better Thoughts
Where our thoughts go, our emotions follow, and our emotions shape how we show up in life.
When I catch myself building a negative story, I ask:
“Do I really deserve that scenario?”
The answer is always no.
We owe it to ourselves to create a safe space in our minds. That inner world is where self-respect, peace, and power begin, and they ripple outward from there.
Final Thought
So, the next time your thoughts start galloping off, take a breath. Take the reins.
You’ll be surprised by how much calmer and more in control you feel.
Here are a few books that helped me on my journey:
– Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself – Dr. Joe Dispenza
– Taming Your Gremlin – Rick Carson