Haven · Mind Patterns

Interactive Activity · #3

Where is your
mind right now?

Our minds spend a surprising amount of time somewhere other than the present. This activity introduces a simple question you can start applying to everyday thinking.

You'll read about several people and what's on their minds. For each one, you'll sort whether they are focused on the past, the present, or the future.

◀
Past
Replaying or revisiting something that already happened
●
Present
Noticing and attending to what is actually happening right now
▶
Future
Thinking about or anticipating something that hasn't happened yet

Who are you joining us as today?

Step 1 · Past, Present, or Future?

Card 1 of 10

Step 1 complete

Card by card

Want to go deeper?
There's a subtler distinction worth exploring.
Not all thinking about the past is the same — and not all thinking about the future is the same. There is a difference between revisiting the past to learn from it, and getting stuck in a loop. There is a difference between thinking about the future to prepare, and worrying without resolution.

If you'd like to explore that distinction, Step 2 introduces a slightly finer framework — with new characters and new scenarios.
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Step 2 · A Deeper Look

Visiting, or captured?

Mindfulness doesn't mean keeping your mind locked in the present. You can think about the past. You can think about the future. The question is whether you are visiting intentionally — or whether the thought has captured you.

Visit the past to learn. Visit the future to prepare. Live in the present.
The problem begins when you move into the past or future — and forget that you're visiting.

In Step 2, you'll sort five patterns:

💡
Reflecting — Past
Deliberate, purposeful. Revisiting the past to learn or understand. You can stop.
🔁
Ruminating — Past
Repetitive, involuntary. Same thoughts, same loop, no new understanding.
●
Present in this Moment
Attending to what is actually happening right here, right now.
📋
Planning — Future
Visiting the future to make a decision now, then returning to the present.
🌀
Worrying — Future
"What if…" loops. Rehearsing possible threats without arriving at any decision.

Step 2 · Visiting or Captured?

Card 1 of 10

Step 2 complete

Card by card

A question to carry with you
✏️You might write your thoughts in a journal, notebook, or notes app.
Return to mindfulness activities
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