Yes, BUT I am pragmatic.

Hey there,

You've raised a point that's quite close to my heart and, I suspect, a concern for many of us pragmatists. In today's world, where pragmatism is often celebrated as the highest form of intelligence, stepping outside the strictly tangible can sometimes earn you the label of a "guru" — and not in the rich, wise sense the word historically connotes. Instead, it's become shorthand for someone detached from reality, floating in a realm of impractical ideas and ungrounded optimism.

This dichotomy presents a false choice: be pragmatic and grounded, or be visionary and detached. Yet, this simplistic division misses the vast landscape of human experience and potential that lies in combining these realms.

Why Dive Into This Balanced Approach?

Engaging with a philosophy that marries the pragmatic with the present moment is essential not just for personal well-being, but for truly effective future planning and achievement. By embracing a more nuanced understanding of pragmatism — one that includes being fully present and open to the non-tangible aspects of our experiences — we can unlock a deeper level of strategic thinking and living. This isn't about rejecting pragmatism; it's about expanding its definition to include the richness of the present moment, thus avoiding the trap of becoming so future-focused that we miss the life unfolding right before our eyes.

Harmonizing Pragmatism with Presence

1. AGAIN AND AGAIN AND AGAIN Develop a Mindful Pragmatism: Being mindful is sometimes misconstrued as being detached from reality, but it's quite the opposite. It's about being so acutely attuned to the present that your decisions and plans are deeply informed by the current moment. This form of pragmatism acknowledges the importance of tangible results while also valuing the process and presence that lead to those outcomes.
2. Flexibility Over Rigidity: Traditional pragmatism might lean towards rigid planning based on foreseeable outcomes, but life's inherent uncertainty demands flexibility. Living in the present teaches you to adapt and respond to changes with agility, not as a compromise, but as a strategic approach to achieving your goals.
3. Balance Action with Reflection: While action is crucial, so is reflection. Taking time to be present and reflect on your values, desires, and the state of your being can inform your actions in a meaningful way. This isn't about endless contemplation but finding a balance that allows for thoughtful action aligned with your true self.

A Call to Action: Embracing a New Pragmatism

Begin with intention. Allow yourself moments of full presence each day, whether in meditation, in nature, or in the midst of a task. Let these moments inform your decisions and plans. Are your actions reflective of your true values? Adjust your plans not just based on what you can see and touch, but also on what you feel and know to be true in these moments.

Now, let’s cut through the myth of winning by embracing these strategies:

1. Transform Mundane Moments into Opportunities for Presence: Find depth in the simplicity of daily tasks by fully engaging with them. This practice turns routine into ritual, grounding you in the now.
2. Engage Your Senses Fully: Make it a habit to really observe, listen, and feel as part of your daily routine. This sensory engagement is a powerful anchor to the present, enhancing your capacity for mindfulness.
3. Cultivate Light-heartedness: Take your goals seriously, but allow yourself the freedom to approach life with a sense of humor. This doesn't undermine your pragmatism; instead, it adds a layer of resilience and adaptability to your planning.

Embracing this expanded view of pragmatism — where living in the moment enriches, rather than detracts from, our ability to plan and achieve — allows us to navigate life with a fuller sense of purpose and joy. It's about winning in the truest sense, not just in achieving our future goals, but in fully experiencing and valuing the journey towards them.

With LOVE

Costa