Thinking About the Present

Human beings are inherently storytellers. We craft narratives that help us navigate our identities, relationships, and surroundings. The pivotal question remains: do these narratives propel us towards our highest potential in the present?

Psychologist Bruce Tift, in his book Already Free, argues that the focus of Western therapy often leans too heavily on the past. Instead, he posits that it should center on the present. Many of us live as if our current existence is merely a continuation of past events. Tift likens it to being typecast in a play, where the applause we've received leads us to forget we’re merely performing a role. Embracing a broader sense of self could unlock new possibilities if we were to shed our unconscious ties to these past characters.

A common pitfall in this reflective process is the tendency to believe that improving the present hinges on reconciling the past. This mindset can compel individuals to attempt to rewrite their history, but the truth is, the past is immutable. This insight is relevant whether considering experiences from five years ago or just five minutes ago. By loosening our attachment to what has already transpired, we can foster meaningful change in our current lives.

Creativity as a Catalyst for Change

The journey of living and instigating change can be viewed as a form of artistry. Philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche highlighted that creativity is essential for becoming who we aspire to be. In her concise work Being and Becoming, author Jennifer Anna Gosetti-Ferencei asserts that to fully own our lives and break free from societal expectations, we must engage in creative invention. This creativity allows us to envision new paths and reinterpret familiar aspects of existence.

In a discussion with Skye Cleary, author of How to Be Authentic, we explored themes of existentialism and the quest for authenticity. When asked about the concept of "becoming," Cleary shared that, according to Simone de Beauvoir, there is no static essence to our being; we are perpetually in a state of becoming something different than who we are today. This aligns with the existentialist perspective that "existence precedes essence," suggesting we first exist and then spend our lives defining who we are.

This video, titled "How to Create Step-by-Step Guides Users will LOVE!" delves into the principles of effective guide creation, emphasizing user engagement and satisfaction.

Embracing Life as an Art Form

By perceiving our lives as artistic endeavors, we can begin to align our actions with our aspirations. St. Francis of Assisi beautifully articulated this idea, stating, "He who works with his hands is a laborer. He who works with his hands and his head is a craftsman. He who works with his hands, head, and heart is an artist."

To become every day—or to make intentional changes—is not just about what has come before or what lies ahead. It is about adopting a mindset that views each moment as a chance to create the life we truly desire.

Thank you for engaging with this exploration of creativity and change. May you find inspiration in your daily journey.

— J.W. Bertolotti

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