Realize deeply that the present moment is all you ever have

In 1993, I sat in a high school auditorium, nervous, excited, and unsure of what the next 4 years would bring. This week, I sat in that same kind of auditorium, but this time as a parent, watching my daughter step into her future.

It was surreal.

I remember the day I brought her home as a newborn.

Now, here we were, listening to the principal talk to her and the other incoming freshman about college preparation.

Sitting there, I reflected on my high school orientation with my parents, taking it all in.

It was exciting and scary.

The principal of Bianca’s new school said something that stuck with me:

“We spend years planning for the future, but right now, today, is that future.”

It made me pause.

I’ve always been someone who plans and prepares—both personally and professionally.

But in doing so, am I always looking ahead and missing what’s happening right now?

Think about your own life.

At some point, you imagined the career, business, or leadership role you have today.

You worked hard to get here.

But are you appreciating it?

Are you maximizing the present moment?

Or are you so focused on what’s next that you don’t even notice you’ve arrived at what you once hoped for?

As leaders at agencies and consultancies, it’s easy to constantly chase the next client, the next strategy, and the next big win.

But what about now?

Are you leading your team with presence?

Are you building the business you once dreamed of or moving through the motions?

Success isn’t just about reaching a goal—it’s about making the most of the moments along the way.

The future you planned for is happening right now.

Realize deeply that the present moment is all you ever have.