By Jerry Elvis

F.I.T.M.

We live in a world of abbreviations. It’s hard to keep up with all of them. From FYI to TMI, it can be challenging. Allow me to add to the fray by offering another one. F.I.T.M. This is one that I try to practice as a pastor, a coach, a father, and a friend.

F.I.T.M. What does that mean? Faithful In This Moment. It’s about being present in the now. This is vital to our productivity and our well-being.

Far too often and for way too many people, their focus is either on where they are going, or where they have been. I’m not saying that there isn’t any value in this. I think that perspective is the key.

Many are stuck reliving or trying to revise their past. This will lead to frustration and failure. A wise man has said, “Don’t dwell in the past, for there is no future in it.” That’s true. Nothing that we do will alter what has been. It’s done. It’s over. It’s the past. A key component in coaching is helping people get “unstuck.” Getting “unstuck” involves leaving the past in the past.

On the other hand, others live only for the future. Their focus is on what might be. Dreams, goals, and ambitions are good things. However, they too can cause us to get “stuck.” It has been said that the gap between expectations and reality is known as frustration. To focus only on the future can get us stuck because it will cause us to live in hopes of the elusive “tomorrow.” We will find ourselves “stuck” in procrastination. Our focus will be on what could be. This can lead to regret when it isn’t realized. We develop a “coulda, shoulda, and woulda” mindset. There’s nothing wrong with dreaming. Yet, at some point, we must wake up and live.

This brings me to my abbreviation. F.I.T.M. The key to significance and ultimately experiencing success is found in being faithful in the moment. Being present in the now. The famous quote "Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift" is often attributed to Eleanor Roosevelt, Master Oogway from "Kung Fu Panda," or Bill Keane. It emphasizes the value of living in the present moment and appreciating each day.

Here's a breakdown:

• "Yesterday is history": It acknowledges that the past has happened and cannot be changed.
• "Tomorrow is a mystery": It highlights the uncertainty of the future.
• "Today is a gift": This is the central message, emphasizing that today is a unique opportunity and should be cherished.
• "That is why it is called the present": It explains why the present is called "present" – because it is the only moment we truly have and can experience.

Whether in pastoral settings, coaching environments, or everyday conversations, I encourage people (and myself) to be “faithful in this moment.” Live in the now. Value and experience today. One of my favorite expressions is “stay focused.” Don’t get stuck in the past. Don’t get

distracted by tomorrow. Embrace today! F.I.T.M.