The Present challenges you, are you up to it?

We all read so many books throughout our lives, but there are only a handful that we find ourselves re-reading. For me, I literally have only 3 books on my shelf that I read multiple times.

The Present was a book I bought back when I was studying for my Masters degree. I was on a internship where I was learning basic managerial skills: motivating employees, establishing a teamwork culture in an organization, and increasing productivity. It has been recommended to me and I have learned that it continues to be shared in the workplace even today.

​This is a book that can be finished in a few hours, literally. It is very simply written, but demands one to reflect and contemplate. The Present is exactly what you make of it. We all are aware of it, but its implementation is what is so challenging. Carpe diem, as the Romans would say, is an ancient reminder that is illustrated in this book. 

The message is simple, yet difficult to implement on a daily basis. 

1. Live life in the present
2. Learn from the past to make the present better
3. Focus on the present to make a desired future possible
4. Live with purpose and intention 

The Present addresses these 4 core lessons through a story that is shared between 2 characters. The reader is asked to reflect upon the story and think how they can implement these lessons into their own lives. 

Living with purpose is central to my existence. I was taught by wonderful mentors and leaders who always put purpose before "work." The idea that our work must fulfill some personal purpose is key for self-motivation and focus in life. Consider following one of my favorite leadership scholars, John Maxwell, on twitter #intentionalliving. 

If you like books that are very descriptive and tell you exactly what to think, then you  may not like this book. But, if you like books that facilitate reflection, discussion, and allow you to reflect from your own  perspective, then you will enjoy this book. 

I love it and hope you consider reading this book. Share it with your young adults, discuss its principles as a family, and share it with others. 

- Dr. Ahmed 

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