By Leo Babauta

Today, I only have questions.

We’re striving for happiness and contentment, but when will we be there? I think we often see a time in the future when things will be better – we’ll have a better relationship, job, house, health situation, financial situation, and more. But when will that day come?

What’s stopping us from being content right now?

What’s stopping us from being present right now?

Many of us can point to external conditions that get in the way of being present (some problem on our minds), or that get in the way of being happy and content. But actually, the things that are stopping us are all inside us. We can’t let go of problems and be present. We are frustrated with ourselves, with others, with our situation, with the way the world is, and we can’t let go of wishing they were different.

The obstacles are inside us.

And so, can’t we let them go?

And can’t the time for happiness be right this moment?