“Seize the day!”—or carpe diem in Latin—comes from the Roman poet Horace. The full line, published in 23 BC, is carpe diem quam minimum credula postero. Its translation is “pluck the day, trusting as little as possible to the next one”. The sentiment has been repeated in literature both before and after.[1] To make the most of today is good advice and is found in Scripture. Ephesians 5:15-16 instructs us, “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” God tells us to make the most of every day, every opportunity.
Rachel Sharp writes for Declutter the Mind, “Those who seize the day make the most of all opportunities that present themselves. They make each moment count. If you want to live a life worth living, it’s important to take advantage of all the opportunities that you can do something new, help others, and enjoy life with those you love.”[2] How can you seize the day today? Here are four ways you can make the most of the next 24 hours:
Help others. Study after study ties real happiness to a lifestyle that helps and serves others. Showing generosity and kindness literally stimulates the pleasure center of the mind.[3] Helping can also take your mind off of your own challenges and difficulties—or can help put them into perspective so that you can more effectively deal with them. Hebrews 13:16 instructs us, “Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” Today, make it a point to practice a random act of kindness and help someone with a genuine need.
Face fears. A little fear is healthy, but too much fear keeps you from taking reasonable risks to enjoy life and experience new things. Consider which fears are keeping you from doing things you want to try, then make a plan to overcome them. God is with you in this. Isaiah 41:10 promises, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” A great method is to ask a friend to help face a fear with you—like having a traveling companion for a fear of flying, or someone to ride the elevator with you for a fear of heights. Overcoming a fear generates an emotional response that can be euphoric. And facing a fear can also help you grow in life and leadership as you conquer emotions that may hold you back.
Stay positive. Attitude is everything. Philippians 4:8 says, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” A positive attitude helps you cope more readily with the ins-and-outs of life. Overwhelming evidence from research shows too that happy people tend to be more successful in all areas of life. A positive attitude helps you maintain your motivation to perform well at work and home.
Play a little. Perhaps there is no greater mandate in seizing the day than to take a portion of it to enjoy. 1 Corinthians 10:31 says, “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” A good meal, a game with family, time with friends—is to God’s glory! Play not only helps you relieve stress, but also creates connections with other people that are a key to enjoying life.[4] Lifelong children’s development expert, instructor and advocate Fred Rogers said, “It’s the things we play with and the people who help us play that make a great difference in our lives.” There is simply no reason for play to be eliminated from our lives once we grow up!
Mark Maynard