I saw this slogan some time ago and it has served me well. Three simple words that can literally change the way you think about people and relationships. There is a complementary statement that could possibly start a war because of the philosophies behind each: Do It Now.

What's the difference?

Glad you asked. If your motto in life is "be here now" you are more concerned with the moment. The best example of this is what I do in my office. When someone comes to visit me (to chat or do business, it really doesn't matter), I have to force myself to pay attention to that person. This means that I may have to physically swivel my chair in that person's direction so that I have that person's undivided attention. Continuing to look at a computer screen and type is rude and unfriendly. Normally, if I'm right in the middle of something, I'll hold up a finger, find a stopping place, then turn to face my visitor. Is this really significant? Absolutely.

Have you ever talked to somebody and you know that the person has something else on his mind and is a million miles away from you at the time. We've all had those experiences. In fact, we've all done that to others. How did it make you feel? I think I uttered the words "why waste my breath" under my breath because I gave up some time to talk and that person abused that time by continuing to work. I even had a future employer do that to me during the job interview!

On the other hand, a 'do it now' approach seizes the moment. If you come to my office without an appointment, please don't expect me to drop everything I'm doing for you. My time is valuable. I may have time for you but don't count on it.

See the difference?

The 'do it now' folks argue that they can do both: doing it now and being here now. Interestingly enough, the be here now group never argue that point.