“Now” is a simple word.  But it can have so much power in our lives.  Here are five ways to allow this word to help you live stronger:

IN COACHING AND INFLUENCE

When you are helping a child grow in skill and experience, replace the word “but” with now.  Here’s an example:

Coach / Parent to a child: “You did a great job, but…[you didn’t do this or you need to do this or fill in the blank”

At the moment you insert “but” the child has forgotten everything you have said that was positive.  Try replacing “but” with “now.”

Coach / Parent to a child:  “You did a great job, now…[try this, add this, let’s see if you can, fill in the blank]”

You have just invited the child to accept the praise as you are adding in the helpful critique.  You’re helping to raise the child to a new level, a new bar.  You are critiquing and challenging at the same time.

This process works with adults as well.

“You are doing great work on this project, now I want to take a minute to show you the next step.”

It’s a wonderful word to bring about a positive change in people.

IN RELATIONSHIPS

“Now” is very important in relationships.  When you are in the present, the here and now, you are fully engaged. As the old saying goes, “the past is history, tomorrow’s a mystery, but today is a gift, that’s why it’s called the present.”  A little trite, but so true.  One of the best gifts you can give in your relationships in “now.”  It will transform the way you interact with your team, your family, your coworkers, your spouse and in every aspect of life.   Trust is the foundation of a great relationship and when those closest to you can trust you to act now, then you will keep building on it.

IN DREAMS AND DESIRES

Do you have a desire for something?  Is there something you’ve always wanted to do?  “Now” can help you transform your dream and vision into a reality.   Do something – today – that will move you closer to your dream.  Take a step right now – this very moment.  Make a decision.  Read something about where your dream might take you. Call and set up lessons or tutoring. Take a risk.  Exercise.  Eat better right now.  No matter how big your dream is, you can take one small step right now.  Acting on it now is powerful.

IN PERSONAL GROWTH

Personal growth and discipline doesn’t always come natural for us.  We typically have to be pretty determined to exercise, read, develop our gifts and stick with it.  Procrastination creeps up on us so slowly, at times we don’t realize it.  Want to grow in discipline – now is the time.  Thinking about sending a note, calling a person, cleaning your desk?  Do it now.  If you have time to think about it, you probably have time to start it.

IN CONTENTMENT

The key to living a content life can be found in Philippians 4:12.  Paul writes that he has learned to be content in plenty and in want, rich or poor, hungry or well fed.  The summary: Paul is totally fine with the here and now no matter what it brings.  We must be grateful for what we have now and this brings us true contentment.   This isn’t always easy, which is why he writes verse 13 – but I can do this through Christ who gives me strength.

Now is a a very powerful little word. Utilize it.