We are living in a time of Only Now.

There is nothing to look forward to, because so much is uncertain. When we look back, everything in our pasts seems so far away, filtered through the dense fog of the pandemic. The pandemic distorts everything, funnels us down into only now. Only this day, only this moment.

I’ve never been good at living in Only Now. It’s hard for me not to plan ahead or think back. But I think my brain is slowly adjusting, and it might be for the better. The present is the only thing we are assured of, so I might as well live in Only Now as much as possible.

I still try to look forward, but it’s for things that are small and soon. Pancakes on Saturday morning. A new book I’ve just downloaded. I try to look back, too, watching old family videos and remembering great trips. When I see myself in an old video sitting next to someone that I can’t sit next to right now, it makes me sad for a moment. Then I remember that person is still alive and might be able to sit next to me again because we’re not together right now. It’s a weird paradox, but it does make me feel better.

Living in Only Now has made me feel more peaceful, more mindful, and happier. It took a pandemic to re-wire my brain, and I hope it sticks when this is over.

How has your perspective on time shifted since mid-March?

For more thoughts on time perspective, check out the newsletter I wrote on the subject earlier in May. If you aren’t subscribed to The Joyful Creative, why not start now? Click here to subscribe.