Sometimes it feels like I’m riding a giant pendulum, holding on for dear life as it swings wildly from side to side.

At one end, I work hard to embrace the moment, enjoying its gifts and being grateful for what is right in front of me.

On the other, I’m planning, plotting, and striving towards new achievements, assuming that life will be a little better “as soon as” I reach the top of the next mountain.

Recently, I asked a mentor of mine for a little guidance with this challenge. She pointed out that being grateful for the present moment and working towards future goals can (and should) coexist.

I didn’t love the answer. 

I was hoping for complete certainty, something like “the research indicates that you should spend 62.5% of your time in the now and the remaining planning for what’s next.”

However, after giving it some thought, I’m sure she’s right.

Life is and will always be a gentle mix of gratitude and striving. Our goal is to keep the swings to a minimum.

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—CJ McClanahan

Speaker | Advisor | Recovering Overachiever

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