Guys, remember track suits?! Not just any old kind, but Juicy track suits?! In middle school, every girl had at least one colorful pair. My recent collaboration with both Teen Vogue and Juicy Couture had me feeling nostalgic like man, “where did time go?!”

Reflecting back on those good ol days prompted me to reflect on how important it is to not dwell in the past or even have a lackadaisical approach about the future. So many of us remain stuck. We get trapped thinking about how great life used to be or we get trapped living day to day for the future, or we get trapped doing whatever the heck we want because we can.

You can imagine how I felt when “live in the moment” was synonymous with “YOLO.” I couldn’t wait for the trend to die. I hated it because it exemplified living the life you want without repercussions. It preached self-destruction rather than self-advancement. It failed horribly to illustrate how right now isn’t all there is.

You can live in the moment in a way that’s healthy to your destiny. Whether you’re in one of those categories above or not, I’m here to encourage you to live in the moment, with a Christlike mindfulness.

In light of this, how can you live in the moment?

1. Don’t worry about the future, don’t remain in the past. 

You don’t gain one thing by worrying. Not one extra hour (Matthew 6:25-34). Not an extra minute. Not an extra second.  In fact, you lose. You can live in the moment through the lens of a believer by accepting that you are free. Accept that things won’t always be in your control. You won’t always know what comes next. But, things are taken cared of. Leave the past where it belongs: behind you. You can reflect but continuous regret will keep you from living and reaching your best potential.

2. Attain joy. 

There is a difference between joy, happiness and optimism. Joy still remains regardless of the circumstance. It is innate. It’s believing in God’s love over all the “good vibes” in this world. True joy comes from having blessed assurance for your right now, your future, and your forever. It’s found in Christ…if you want it.

3. Notice the beauty around you.

I absolutely love walks. It keeps me centered. I tend to walk in silence but my heart always gives thanks. I take note of my surroundings and the beauty that is life. When you can look at the gorgeous sunset, or witness new life, or party it up with your loved ones, and appreciate it all, you are living in the moment.

Living in the moment isn’t about bagging the hottest guy, getting money, or getting high. Living in the moment is freedom from the fast life.

Believer or not, life is worth living. Don’t waste away doing things that don’t benefit your mind, body and soul.

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Clothes Courtesy of Teen Vogue x Juicy Couture

Photos: Dexterity Photography