I love the movie _Dead Poet’s Society_, and this scene is largely why. Robin William’s character tells his students to “Carpe diem, seize the day boys, make your lives extraordinary!” That is the focus of our fourth secret of success, enjoy life today.
This movie captures the continuum of life, from the early years of preparation and dreaming about the future, to late years - even after death, and considering how one’s life has been lived after the fact. It makes me think about those things and how it is so easy for all of us to get stuck focusing on what will be or what has been and we forget to live in the moment and enjoy life today.
Now, we’re not saying that there is anything wrong with planning ahead or learning from past mistakes. These life lessons are highly valuable and wisely put into practice. The key is balance and recognizing that when past or future takes too much away from present, we miss out.
Start by making a list of 10 things that you are thankful for right now. Pay attention to how tempting it can be to list something that happened in the past, or something you’re hopeful for in the future. Leave those things out of this list and only write down what you are thankful for today.
Emily Dickinson said, “That it will never come again is what makes life so sweet.” Each moment we are given is a gift that can never be recovered once it’s passed. Take time in your life today to savor the moment you’re in. Practice being present in your life today and with others. Put aside all your worries about the future and simply enjoy the moment in which you’re living. It will never come again.
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