'The Power of Now' is a well-known book and a profound concept. The past = memory, the future = imagination. Focus on the Now, the present moment.
I also recommend the power of no... and the power of yes.
These are the 2 most ancient and powerful words in the world. Understanding them and using them thoughtfully can help you be happy and prosper.
Yes and no are not just ancient, actually they are timeless concepts. They are at the heart of every language in the world. Even animals have their versions of yes and no.
Every Yes is a No to Something Else
Use your Yes choice sparingly. Every time you say yes to something you will be saying no to something else. You can only be in one place at a time. You only have so much time, energy and effort.
Every No opens the Way to Another Yes
When one door closes another opens. When you say No to something it will inevitably change your circumstances and allow for alternative opportunities to arise. Importantly you will have more time and attention to recognise and make best use of golden opportunities that come your way.
Strengthen Your No
Your No is your shield protecting you from distractions and low-value activities. Allow it to be strong and steadfast. Trust in your willpower but also arrange things to make it easier. Remove temptations. Make it difficult to go against your No.
Strengthen Your Yes
When you say yes to an opportunity or a task you should do it wholeheartedly. A powerful Yes represents enthusiasm, determination and patience. All of which can help you succeed.
Flexibility When Needed
Your Yes and Your No should be strong and steadfast. However you also have the power to change your mind. New information and new circumstances may change things. Do not be stubborn or prideful. Do not cling to your Yes or No irrationally. You can change your Yes into a No when the circumstances suggest it is wise to do so. You can change your No into a Yes when the circumstances suggest it is wise to do so.
Assets and Liabilities
When making purchases some will be necessary. Others will be optional. Assess which ones will be liabilities and which will be assets. Liabilities may cost on an ongoing basis and go down in value over time. Assets may make money, have other ongoing benefits and go up in value over time. Assets and liabilities do not just apply to financial topics. They can also relate to your personal life, your health and many other areas. You can shift your life in a positive direction by saying yes to more assets and no to more liabilities.
Beware of False Dichotomies
A false dichotomy is a "logical fallacy that presents only two extreme options as the only possibilities, when in fact more options or a spectrum of possibilities exist. It oversimplifies complex situations into black-and-white choices, often to force a specific decision or limit debate". When someone presents you with 2 options pause to consider if they really are the only options to apply your Yes or No to. A limited choice of 2 might be someone trying to manipulate you or maybe they lack the imagination or knowledge to recognize other options. Think for yourself when saying Yes or No.
Your Life Structure
Your yes and no choices structure your life. Make a list of your major decisions. What could you be saying yes and no to?
If you want a beautiful space to plan the structure of your life then say YES to Thoughtogram! You can quickly write your options down on individual cards. Then you can arrange and rearrange them. It is a great way to contemplate your life choices and how better to design your Yes and No structure.