There Is No Present Like The Time

I met with John Wilgar, Chief Procurement Officer, and Marie Gresko, Procurement Process Improvement Manager for NSG Pilkinton Glass in Latham, Lancashire, to enjoy a nice lunch and discuss the year ahead.
 
I’ve had the pleasure of working with John and Marie for several years, and working with their staff is always a joy. The conversation was wide and varied, and we covered many topics.
 
John mentioned one phrase that I found fascinating. It was a simple play on a well-known phrase he had heard from someone. The phrase was ‘There is no present like the time,’ which plays on the famous phrase ‘There is no time like the present’.
 
As I pondered on this phrase, I thought I would research the meaning in more detail, and this is what I found:
 
 
It changed the meaning.
 
The phrase “there is no present like the time” is a creative twist on the saying “there is no time like the present.” Both phrases share a similar message about valuing the present moment, but the wordplay changes the focus slightly.
 
The original phrase, “there is no time like the present,” encourages you to take action immediately, saying that now is the best time to do something important.
 
The playful variation, “there is no present like the time,” shifts the focus to seeing the present moment as a “gift” (using the double meaning of the word “present”). It highlights the idea of appreciating and valuing the moment you’re in.
 
By changing the wording, this variation adds a new layer of meaning, combining the idea of mindfulness (treating the present as a gift) with the original message of acting in the moment.
 
 
The benefits of this phrase.
 
The phrase “there is no present like the time” offers several benefits as both a mindset and a call to action. It encourages mindfulness by reminding us to focus on the present rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, which can help reduce stress and anxiety.
 
Viewing the present as a gift fosters gratitude and contentment for what we have right now.
 
It also promotes action by motivating us to overcome procrastination, emphasising that the best time to start is now. Acting in the present allows us to seize opportunities that may not arise again.
 
This perspective improves mental well-being by reducing overthinking and mental clutter. Concentrating on the present moment brings clarity, enhancing decision-making by minimising distractions from the past or future.
 
 
It builds momentum.
 
Another key benefit is productivity. Taking action immediately creates a sense of accomplishment and builds momentum toward achieving larger goals. Recognising the value of the present also leads to more intentional and efficient use of time.
 
Being fully present enhances relationships, allowing for better communication and more profound connections through attentiveness and care.
 
Finally, it develops a positive perspective by framing the present as an opportunity rather than a limitation. Embracing the power of now instils a sense of control and responsibility for shaping outcomes.
 
In essence, embracing the idea that “there is no present like the time” can lead to a more fulfilling, productive, and balanced life by inspiring mindfulness and action—essential for personal growth and success.
 
 
Mindfulness.
 
This new wording highlights the importance of mindfulness, a practice proven to enhance well-being. As a strong advocate of mindfulness, I incorporate it into my daily routine multiple times.
 
Whether through capturing special moments or practising mindful breathing, these simple actions allow me to infuse my day with calming and peaceful moments, creating pockets of tranquillity amid the busyness.
 
 
Here are the top 5 benefits of mindfulness:
 
Reduces Stress: Mindfulness helps you stay present, lowering stress levels by reducing worry about the future and regret about the past.
 
Improves Focus and Concentration: Regular practice trains your brain to stay focused, enhancing productivity and reducing distractions.
 
Enhances Emotional Regulation: Mindfulness helps you become more aware of your emotions, allowing you to respond calmly rather than impulsively.
 
Promotes Better Sleep: Being present and relaxed through mindfulness can improve sleep quality and help with falling asleep more easily.
 
Strengthens Relationships: Mindfulness improves listening and communication skills, helping you connect better with others and resolve conflicts more effectively.
 
  
To sum up, the phrase “there is no present like the time” is a powerful reminder to make the most of the moment. It combines the importance of taking action with appreciating the present as a gift. This way of thinking can help reduce stress, improve focus, and strengthen relationships.
 
By staying present and acting purposefully, we can take advantage of opportunities, build progress, and live a more balanced and meaningful life. This phrase has reminded me how valuable each moment is and how important it is to use it well. 

 
Thoughts for the week. 

1. What relationships in your life would benefit from more presence and attentiveness?
2. What habits can you change to live more in the present?
3. How often do you let distractions take you away from the present?
4. What role does gratitude play in your daily life?
5. What overlooked moments in your day could you appreciate more?