The Power of Presence: Finding Peace in the Now Through Gratitude

 

Life, Oh Beautiful, Chaotic Life: A Gratitude Reflection

Life is an intricate tapestry woven with moments, emotions, and the people who make it worthwhile. It’s chaotic, unpredictable, and often overwhelming, but when you have the right people in your corner? That’s the game-changer. These are the ones who respond to your frantic messages even when their plates are overflowing, the ones who help untangle your thoughts when confusion, anger, or exhaustion cloud your mind.

Today, I find myself brimming with gratitude for such people my sweet friend, my coach, and the invaluable lessons they’ve taught me. It’s been one of those days, the kind where frustration simmers beneath the surface, and you can’t quite pin down its source.

Emotions: Your Inner GPS

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: emotions are pointers. They act like a GPS for the soul, guiding us toward areas we need to address to become better versions of ourselves. But let’s be honest self-awareness isn’t for the faint of heart. Not everyone is ready to sit with their emotions, let alone decode them.

Some people stay stuck in a loop, reliving the same scenarios repeatedly, like a scratched CD (remember those?) because they’re unwilling to face the lessons life is persistently trying to teach them. But if you’re on a self-awareness journey committed to examining your patterns and emotions it doesn’t just transform you. It’s a gift to everyone around you. Your vibe, your energy, has a profound impact on your environment, whether you realize it or not.

The “Vibe Check” Moment

Let me paint you a picture. Recently, I noticed something strange at work. My colleagues seemed… tense whenever I walked into the office. At first, I brushed it off, but the pattern became impossible to ignore. I started wondering: Is it me? Have I become “that” person whose presence makes others uncomfortable?

Adding to this unease, I’d been getting irritated far too easily. I couldn’t figure out why. Frustrated and slightly panicked, I sent a message to my sweet friend: “Hey, I think I’m being a bit of a jerk these days.” 😅 Their response? A simple, “Why do you feel that way?”

“I don’t know yet,” I admitted.

The Coach

When I couldn’t make sense of my emotions, I decided to call in the big guns my coach and mentor, Dr. Hauwa Bello. She wasn’t immediately available, but true to form, she called me back later. (Bless her heart!) She patiently listened as I poured out my frustrations, untangling the emotional traffic jam in my mind.

Her first question was simple yet profound:

“You know the anger you’re feeling isn’t really about the person who’s annoying you, right?”

Boom. That was my first lightbulb moment.

“Yes, I know,” I said hesitantly.

“Okay,” she continued, “so what’s really bothering you?”

A Financial Epiphany

That’s when it hit me. My frustration wasn’t about any one person. It was about everything my financial concerns, planning for next year, juggling responsibilities, and meeting everyone’s expectations. I’d been carrying so much that it was manifesting as irritation.

Then, Dr. Hauwa shared a proverb: “A bird in the hand is better than a thousand in the bush.”

Her point was simple but transformative. We often spend so much time fixated on the future or ruminating over the past that we neglect the present. We procrastinate, let tasks pile up, and then wonder why we’re overwhelmed.

She told me, “Beeba, appreciate where you are now. Appreciate what you have and the people around you. That perspective will help you see the future clearly and plan better.”

It felt as though a weight had been lifted. Her words were a soothing balm for my overburdened mind.

Gratitude in Action

To my coach, Dr. Hauwa Bello, thank you for always showing up for me. Your wisdom and kindness never go unnoticed. May your good deeds weigh heavy on the scales of judgment. Your heart of gold is truly a blessing, and I pray it continues to shine brightly.

To my sweet friend, who took the time to respond to my message despite their busy schedule Nagode. Your empathy and support remind me that even small acts of kindness can be profound.

Lessons to Carry Forward

1. Self-Awareness is a Superpower

Understanding your emotions isn’t just for your benefit it affects everyone around you. When you’re intentional about examining your patterns and making adjustments, you create a ripple effect of positivity.

2. The Present is Powerful

The now is all we truly have. By appreciating the present moment, we can reduce overwhelm and create space to plan for the future with clarity.

3. Everyone Needs a Coach

Life is too messy to navigate alone. Having a mentor or coach can be a game-changer, helping you untangle your thoughts and find direction when you’re lost.

4. Your Energy Matters

Whether you realize it or not, your vibe influences your environment. Strive to bring positivity into every space you enter.

A Final Thought on Vulnerability

Vulnerability isn’t weakness; it’s strength. Acknowledging when you’re overwhelmed, seeking help, and expressing gratitude are all acts of courage. As Brené Brown famously said, “Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change.”

Sharing my struggles with my friend and coach reminded me that we’re not meant to carry life’s burdens alone. By opening up, we create opportunities for growth, deeper connections, and, ultimately, healing.

Parting Thoughts

Life, in all its chaos, is a beautiful journey of learning and unlearning. Gratitude helps us navigate its messiness with grace. Today, I’m thankful for the people who anchor me, the lessons that keep me grounded, and the self-awareness that helps me grow.

To you reading this: take a moment to reflect on your own journey. Who are the people you’re grateful for? What lessons have shaped you? And how can you embrace the present with open arms?

Let’s choose gratitude over frustration, clarity over confusion, and positivity over doubt because that’s how we transform life’s chaos into something truly beautiful.