How to stop chasing “The Good Old Days” and enjoy today

How many times have you caught yourself saying, “ah, those were the days”? For me, I often reminisce about my secondary school years and how fun that period was. In reality, 11 to 15-year-old Chloë couldn’t wait to get out of that place.

We often focus on the good times we had or the good times we’re going to have rather than the good times we’re having. Living in the past or future stops you being present. How much did you enjoy the “good old days” while you were in them - were you living in the moment or thinking of some good-er, older days? When you reach that future point you’re looking forward to, are you going to acknowledge it or just wonder what’s coming next?

There’s nothing wrong with looking back fondly on your past or getting excited for your future as long as you acknowledge the moment you’re living in. Get comfortable with the fact you can’t relive those past moments, and you have no certainty that future moments will happen or that they’ll live up to the idea in your head. The only certainty is the moment you’re in. By accepting that this moment will be as good as you allow it to be (because you decide how you feel in the moments you’re living) you can have the good-est of days today.

Next time you catch yourself wishing for the past or waiting for the future, take a second to notice the present and remember you have control over how you perceive your reality. Today will only be as good as you make it.

Try this: name one thing right now that is good and one thing you’ll enjoy/have enjoyed today. Practising gratitude, in whichever way works for you, is a great way to stay in the present.