Quote The true definition of mental illness is when...

“The true definition of mental illness is when the majority of your time is spent in the past or future, but rarely living in the realism of NOW.” - Shannon L. Alder

Decryption of quote

The true definition of mental illness is a concept that delves deep into the complexities of the human mind. It is not merely about a diagnosis or a label, but rather a profound understanding of how our thoughts and emotions shape our reality.

When we find ourselves spending the majority of our time dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, we are missing out on the beauty and richness of the present moment. We become trapped in a cycle of regret and anxiety, unable to fully experience the joy and wonder that surrounds us.

Living in the realism of NOW means embracing the present moment with all its imperfections and uncertainties. It means letting go of the past and releasing our grip on the future, allowing ourselves to be fully present and engaged in the here and now.

It is in the present moment that we find peace, clarity, and a sense of purpose. It is where we can truly connect with ourselves and others, and experience the fullness of life in all its beauty and complexity.

When we are able to live in the realism of NOW, we free ourselves from the chains of our own minds and open ourselves up to a world of infinite possibilities. We become more resilient, more compassionate, and more attuned to the rhythms of the universe.

So let us strive to break free from the shackles of the past and the anxieties of the future, and embrace the power of the present moment. Let us live each day with intention, gratitude, and an open heart, knowing that the true essence of life lies in the here and now.




attitude awareness dreams enlightenment focus forgetting future goals identity letting-go life life-lessons living memories mental-illness pain past planning present realism regrets

Quotes to Explore


 inspirational quotes - Image for quote : The truth is, unless you let go, unless you forgive yourself, unless you forgive the situation, unless you realize that the situation is over, you cannot move forward.

The truth is, unless you let go, unless you forgive yourself, unless you forgive the situation, unless you realize that the situation is over, you cannot move forward.

Steve Maraboli

 inspirational quotes - Image for quote : Incredible change happens in your life when you decide to take control of what you do have power over instead of craving control over what you don't.

Incredible change happens in your life when you decide to take control of what you do have power over instead of craving control over what you don't.

Steve Maraboli

 inspirational quotes - Image for quote : Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.

Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.

Viktor E. Frankl

 inspirational quotes - Image for quote : The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.

The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.

Walt Disney Company

 inspirational quotes - Image for quote : Change the way you look at things and the things you look at change.

Change the way you look at things and the things you look at change.

Wayne W. Dyer

 inspirational quotes - Image for quote : Action may not always bring happiness, but there is no happiness without action.

Action may not always bring happiness, but there is no happiness without action.

William James