“Carpe Diem” can be translated into the Latin expression meaning “seize the day.” It’s a saying that people should enjoy the present, rather than worrying about the future.  

Let’s take a moment to reflect.

Are we really seizing our day? We live in a crazy, fast-paced world that asks a lot out of us. Sometimes we get too drained or caught up in our own lives, and that’s perfectly ok. Although, we all deserve to enjoy the moments that we have in the present as best as we can.

So, how can we best seize the day?

Here are some mindsets we can use to live in the present:

1. The Time is Now

What time is it? The time is now.

Every now and then it feels as if hours fly by in seconds, or the other way around. No matter what, time is a precious thing that we should all try to make the best of. So, when you’re thinking of all the things you need to work on, start with doing one now. The more we say, “I’ll do it later,” the higher the chances are that we won’t get to it at all.

We can accomplish so much more if we try and do things in the now.

2. Spread Positivity

Mike Holmes couldn’t have said it better. “Be positive.” Even if you’re a glass-half-empty type of person, we could all use a little positivity. If you’re having a bad day, don’t sweat it. We all have bad days. What we shouldn’t do is spread that negativity to someone else. Let’s try and spread positivity in our everyday lives.

Think of it in terms of the other spectrum. You never know what little kindness could do for another person having a hard time. Even something as simple as a smile or holding the door is a step in spreading good energy.

Here’s a challenge: let’s all try and make at least one stranger smile every day!

3. Early Bird Gets the Worm

Going back to the theme of time, we can definitely get a head start to seizing our day if we seize it early. Sleeping in is definitely a luxury every once in a while. Although, think of the potential opportunities we waste by burning daylight. The extra effort we put into waking up earlier in the morning could be one more item crossed off our to-do list. We can also see the beauty of our world by catching the sun rise once in a while.

When’s the last time you attempted to see the sun rise?

4. Put Down the Phone

We can blame Millennials as much as we want for always being on their phones but let’s face the facts: everyone is always on their electronics nowadays. Whether it’s your phone, computer, tablet, etc., let’s try and set aside time where all electronics are put away. Focus on the reality in front of you. We can get so consumed by the digital world that we forget the beauty that’s right in front of us.

Are you having a group dinner with loved ones? Put the phone down. Have some genuine conversations. Are you winding down after a long day? Put the computer down. Work is over, it’s time to relax. The world won’t end if your phone is turned off; let’s enjoy the present!

5. Be Active

Now, not all of us can do a handstand like that, but we all can be active in some way!

Staying physically active every day is good for us not only physically, but mentally as well. Let’s avoid the excuses of saying “I don’t have time,” or “I don’t know how to gym.” Find what best suits your level of comfortability, and what fits into your schedule.

Simple ways of staying active can be anything from walking along the beach, or even walking your dog. Walking your dog is a work-out for you too! If you’re feeling a little adventurous, live it up! Go on a hike to see a breathtaking view, or pick up a new sport that’s challenging. Whatever the case, find the will to be active 🙂

6. Say Yes

What better way to live out the expression, “carpe diem” than by actually saying “yes!”? Think about all the possibilities that can come from a three letter word. Friendships can form, memories can be made, and opportunities can arise if we open our mind to trying new things. Step out of your comfort zone once in a while; it will most likely be weird but most likely beneficial.

Be mindful of the questions that are asked to you. If there’s a slight chance that you’re interested, say “yes,” and try it out. The worst that could happen is that it doesn’t work out, but at least you went for it! We can all make the most out of your days by trying out opportunities that find their way over to us.

Join us at DAYBREAKER SD!

Now that you have some ways to actively seize your day, come put it to action at Daybreaker San Diego!

Daybreaker is an early morning dance movement that has spread to 25 cities around the world. The event starts with a one hour yoga + fitness experience and closes out with a mega dance party!

What better way to say “yes” to the day than by relaxing the mind through yoga, getting pumped through dancing, and enjoying the moments with your fellow neighbors!!