Don't Miss the Moments: Simple Ways to Stay Present This Thanksgiving

Have you ever spent hours preparing for a big event - whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday celebration, a wedding, or an important work event - only to realize, at the end of the day, that you were so caught up in the details that you forgot to enjoy the moment itself? 

I have! I’m the one who loves making sure everyone is comfortable, the food is just right, and the day runs smoothly. But I often get so caught up running around, making sure everything is perfect, that by the end of the day, I realize I haven’t slowed down enough to truly enjoy it or spend time with the people I care about. Before I know it, the day has passed, and I’ve missed the chance to be present and experience the moment.

It happens to all of us!

This weekend, as we celebrate Canadian Thanksgiving, I wanted to share this short article as a gentle reminder to all of us - including myself - to slow down and be present, so we can fully appreciate what truly matters.

Tips to Quickly Bring Yourself Back into the Moment

Very often, when I get caught up in the chaos of preparations, a few simple things help me slow down and ground myself. My loved ones remind me to use them when they see me rushing around.

If the people around you know these tools, they can not only help themselves in busy moments but also remind you to slow down when you need it most. Don’t forget to share this with anyone who might find it helpful—it’ll make a difference for both them and you!.

These tips are simple but effective, and they’ll help you slow down, be present, and truly enjoy what’s happening around you.

1. Take a Deep Breath 

This sounds almost too simple, but deep breathing can immediately shift your mind from busy to calm. Deep breathing reduces stress and helps slow your brain down when you’re feeling overwhelmed. I even practice this with my four-year-old daughter when she’s full of energy and running around. Breathing together helps us both slow down and be present. The next time you feel your mind racing, pause for a few seconds, take a slow, deep breath, and focus on the feeling of the air filling your lungs. Or try box breathing - one of my favorite exercises that I practice often (Box Breathing Relaxation Exercise)

2. Engage Your Senses

One of the quickest ways to bring yourself back to the moment is to engage your senses. Focus on what you can see, hear, smell, taste, and touch. Look around - notice the sound of laughter, the clinking of glasses, or the music playing softly in the background. Check out my earlier blog post for a simple exercise you can use to slow down (Slow don't and regain focus: a quick exercise). Engaging your senses anchors you in the now and helps you appreciate the little details that make life special.

3. Ask Yourself: What's the Most Important Thing Right Now? 

Once you’ve slowed down a bit, take a moment to ask yourself: "What's the most important thing right now?" It’s not about the food, or how clean the kitchen is, or whether everything is running perfectly. What really matters is creating memories with the people you’re with and remembering how you feel in the moment. This is something I’m still working on myself - it’s a constant effort to remind myself that perfection isn’t the goal, presence is. 

The Takeaway

As you gather with family and friends this Thanksgiving, I encourage you to take a moment - breathe, engage your senses, and remind yourself of what’s truly important.

Don’t let the day pass without fully experiencing it.

Be present, enjoy the company of your loved ones, and remember that the best memories are made when we slow down and take it all in.

For those who celebrate today, wishing you peace of mind, joy with your loved ones, and the ability to truly be present this holiday season. Happy Thanksgiving!

🔋Hi, I am Marina Korotkikh - your go-to Energy and Time Management Coach for High Performers. I will help you get from point A (Always too busy, never enough time) to Point B (Clear, Energized, and In Control) in 70 days. Book a commitment-free call to learn more and follow for easy productivity, energy management, and mindfulness tips.