“You can never be in the future; we can only be in the now. All we have is the now.”

So many of us are so focused on living for tomorrow or dwelling on the past that we often miss what is right in front of us. As another trip around the sun comes to an end, I am enticed more than ever by the process of slowing down. Not with the intent of lessening my impact or doing less work, but with the goal of being intentional with the time I have.

Recently, I encountered a clip on social media that really spoke to me: “You can never be in the future; we can only be in the now. All we have is the now.” This phrase might seem simple, yet its implications are profound, particularly when viewed through the lens of intentionality. It reminds me to focus on the potential of what could be, if approached with intention, care, and dedication. This mindset propels me forward, continually creating space to address today’s challenges.

In my role as a DEI professional, I advocate for taking small, incremental steps every day—these are the building blocks for the inclusive and equitable world we aim to realize. Whether working with organizational development clients or coaching individuals, our goal isn’t to achieve monumental changes overnight. Instead, we focus on breaking down larger objectives into achievable daily actions. It’s through these consistent, everyday efforts—making informed choices and commitments—that we can dismantle systemic barriers and cultivate a culture of belonging.

Whether it’s advocating against bias, crafting inclusive policies, or listening with deep empathy, every single action is pivotal. I’ve lived this journey myself—setting incremental goals and one day realizing, somewhat amazed, “When did I become that person?” This transformation unfolds not in the leaps, but in the steadfast commitment to the present.

I’m curious about your journey, too. How do you stay grounded in the present to fuel meaningful progress? What small, intentional steps are you taking today to build a more inclusive world? Your experiences and insights are invaluable, and I invite you to share them here. They not only enrich our discussions but also inspire others in their own paths toward change.