09/04/2026
We all make plans for this or that—planning is a national pastime that occupies a significant portion of our lives. We plan to go here, attend that event, wear a particular outfit, and eat specific foods. Our lives revolve around plans for the next five minutes, five hours, five days, or even five years. So, what's your plan?
Planning involves organizing things before we actually start. In doing so, we often neglect to live spontaneously. Or appreciate the present moment.
What happens when life doesn't go as planned? How do you react if you don't get that job, it rains on the day you planned to go to the beach, you want coffee but don't have any, your trip is canceled, your wedding is called off, you didn't get into the school of your choice, or your luggage is lost while traveling? Countless plans go awry.
Do you throw a tantrum, get angry, sulk, or create a negative atmosphere? Many people do, as if that will change the situation. Think about how you respond when things don't go as planned. Often, we have little patience when life doesn't unfold as we expect. We fear uncertainty.
Life teaches us, though, that even with detailed schedules and calendar apps, things may still not go as intended. So live in the moment. When we truly engage with the present, we experience life more fully. We realize our luggage is lost, so we look for other ways to have fun. We focus on enjoying the present moment.
Focus on the present moment and experience it instead of worrying about the future. Understand that life doesn't always follow our plans. Interestingly, when our plans don't happen, it may actually work out in our favor.
Planning is all about getting ready for what's next. We should, however, embrace life's uncertainties. By doing so, we let go of our worries, stress less, and the uncertain experience feels lighter. Of course, we will keep planning. But let's not forget our beautiful present moment. That means dropping the past or projecting into the future. Instead, we tune into what's happening right now. Pay attention to "now"; life becomes clearer. After all, the present moment is the only true reality.
Experience Àse Yoga, where every breath counts.