I think for me, when I am not present, it's because I'm trying to escape some aspect of reality. I started being much more picky with what I take into my world, and it's easier to be present when being surrounded with things and people that I really enjoy. I feel like so much of my energy used to be taken up by "managing" reality. To almost refuse to look at bad relationships and that way enabling them in some way. I took the advice to believe people when they show me who they are or how they feel. I usually have all the clues. I just needed to open my eyes. It's a beautiful world now. Being more authentic took away a lot of cognitive dissonance also. Thank you for thinking back at me. Have a nice day!