Change, transition, transformation, evolution. Each of these words suggest a common theme - the way things were, and the way things are, are giving way to something new.

While change is probably the only thing that's really constant — the one thing upon which we can count — it's still an experience that most people find unnerving, even when the circumstances that are transforming are ones we look forward to leaving behind.

There is a saying that "You never step into the same river twice." This speaks to how the waters of change are always flowing, always creating a new river of life.

Without change, nothing grows, and no new possibilities can come into being. Things stagnate, and become rote and outdated. Change brings about new life, new creativity, and new resolutions to old problems, in every sense of those words.

Why is it so challenging, then, if it's something that is always happening within and around us? How can we become more effective at surfing the waves of change — and maybe even enjoying it?

There are many practices available to us, but one of the most effective is to develop greater mastery at being present "in the NOW." This means to practice keeping your attention on what's going on within and around you right now, rather than ruminating over the past or worrying over the future.

This is harder than it sounds — to be fully present in the current moment. But it's a habit that can be cultivated with practice, and one that opens us up to great powers of creativity, insight, inspiration and intuition.

Try it today — when you become aware of your mind wandering, simply bring it back so that you're paying full attention to what's happening right now. What do you hear? What do you see? What do you feel, right now?

Cultivate excellence and mastery in the present moment, and you'll have a powerful ally in surfing the swells of change.

Want to browse more Ivy Sea wisdom and mastery tips? Check out our Mastery-Tips Archive.