Being in Relationship with Myself: Cultivating Presence

One of the most profound lessons I’ve learned in my journey is the importance of being in a relationship with myself—of truly showing up for me. For so long, I thought presence was about being fully engaged with others, but I’ve realised that the foundation of presence lies in how I connect with myself. 

To me, presence means being in the here and now without judgment or distractions. It’s about stepping out of autopilot mode and choosing to notice what’s happening within and around me. Yet, being present isn’t always easy. My mind often pulls me into the past, replaying old stories, or it rushes ahead into the future, filled with plans or worries. In those moments, I gently remind myself to pause and ask: “What’s happening right now? What am I feeling, sensing, or experiencing in this moment?”.

When I embrace presence, I notice life in sharper detail—the way sunlight filters through the window, the rhythm of my breath, or even the subtle weight of emotions I might otherwise ignore. It’s in these moments of open-ended presence that I find clarity and connection, not just with the world but with myself. 

Being present with myself also requires letting go of judgment. When I notice self-criticism creeping in, I try to acknowledge it without letting it take over. Instead of judging my emotions or thoughts, I strive to hold them with curiosity and compassion, asking,  “What might this be trying to tell me?”

It’s not always comfortable. Sometimes, being fully present means facing the parts of myself, I’d rather avoid—fear, doubt, or pain. But I’ve learned that these moments are where true growth happens. When I stay with myself, even through discomfort, I find a deeper sense of grounding and self-trust.  

The gift of presence is that it helps me make the most of the opportunities of the now. Whether it’s savouring a quiet moment, noticing something beautiful, or simply allowing myself to rest, presence reminds me that life is happening here,  not in the past or the future.  

1.  How often do you take time to be fully present with yourself? What helps you reconnect when you feel distracted or disconnected?  

2.  What does being in a judgment-free relationship with yourself look like for you? How might this deepen your self-awareness? 

I’d love to hear your reflections and learn from you, guys. How do you cultivate presence in your daily life? 🌿💚