There is great power in being truly present.
Presence is more than simply sharing the same physical space—it’s about giving your full attention to the moment and the person in front of you. When your mind drifts to other thoughts or distractions, you’re no longer fully there. This lack of presence can make others feel unheard or dismissed, often leading to frustration or disconnection.
Genuine engagement and meaningful relationships require quieting the inner noise and allowing yourself to be completely mindful in each moment. Practicing presence not only enhances your own well-being but also positively impacts those you lead. The more present a leader is with their team, the more trust, performance, and collaboration naturally arise.
Three simple ways to cultivate presence:
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Practice active and empathetic listening.
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Develop mindfulness through daily awareness.
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Focus on being more of a human being than a human doing.
As a leader, your goal should be to care deeply for your people on a personal level—because when people feel seen, valued, and supported, they naturally give their best on a professional level.