The American satirical comic science fiction film Spaceballs (co-written, produced and directed by Mel Brooks) came out in 1987. The plot is that of your standard intergalactic “save the princess” movie. Expect some slapstick humor, expect some well timed irony … and enjoy the unexpected wisdom.
Lord Dark Helmet: What the hell am I looking at? When does THIS happen in the move?
Col. Sandurz: NOW. You’re looking at now, sir. Everything that happens now is happening now.
Lord Dark Helmet: Go back to then!
Col. Sandurz: What?
Lord Dark Helmet: THEN!
Col. Sandurz: I can’t!
Lord Dark Helmet: Why not?
Col. Sandurz: We passed it!
Lord Dark Helmet: When?
Col. Sandurz: Just now!
Lord Dark Helmet: When will then be now?
Col. Sandurz: SOON!
Spaceballs
The ability to be present means having your focus, your attention, your thoughts and feelings all fixed on the current moment and the task at hand. There are numerous benefits included the ability to fully enjoy the moment the you are in when you are calm and you know exactly what you want. This is when life is the most authentic and real — and when you are able to harness your power.
We create in the present.
Some of the main outputs of staying present include improved social skills, improved creativity, stress relief, less overthinking and more openness.
Our cravings become more obvious, food tastes better and surprisingly we appreciate it more and eat it less. Physical pain is diminished, working out is no longer a Herculean task and large deadline driven projects are no longer overwhelming.
We naturally become more playful and enjoy our world more.
How does this relate to business?
Marketing is much more powerful when it’s anchored in the present moment. Brands are building relationships with their consumers with every outreach and the impact of these messages is far more powerful when founded in the here and now. That inner focus adds depth and allows us to make vital connections.
Staying present also ensures relevancy and mindful marketing allows you to stay present with your audience.
If you understand your audience and their desires and frustrations, then you’ll be more attuned to speak to their current needs and capture their interest in the moment — which it also bears mentioning is the point of purchase. It also has the added benefit of naturally aligning your interests and offerings to provide value.
Why will it benefit your business to live in the now?
Because your authenticity will allow you to effortlessly create an inspirational connection between your brand and your audience. It also has the added benefit of being less stressful and more fulfilling.
Here’s to unlocking a more passionate and purposeful way of working through mindfulness.