The Quiet Power of Being Present
How often are we elsewhere when we need to be here?
It strikes me how often we're physically in one place but mentally somewhere else.
Think about it:
Thinking about work while having dinner with family.
Playing with your kids while your mind drifts to finances.
Listening to how your kids have been doing with one eye on your phone.
It's a common experience, but there are subtle costs to this divided attention. We can miss the nuances that truly matter:
The slight hesitation in our child’s voice that might signal they need support.
The moment of connection that deepens a relationship.
The easy way that we remove our own sense of isolation through connection with other people.
We often believe multitasking boosts productivity, but research suggests it can actually decrease our effectiveness significantly. That also has nothing to say about how it is damaging our connections with others.
So, how can we cultivate a little more intentional presence in our day? Here are a few simple ideas:
Try single-tasking: Closing your laptop during conversations or putting your phone away can make a real difference. Experiment with giving one thing your complete attention for a short period and see how it feels.
Use transition rituals: Taking a few deep breaths before a meeting or pausing briefly before responding can create a small space for presence.
Practice the "one thing" rule when someone is speaking to you: Try to make them the sole focus of your attention in that moment, letting go of other thoughts for a little while. Your mind may wander—bring it back again!
In a busy world, our full attention can be a powerful thing.
What's one opportunity you might have today to practice being a little more present?
Can You Help Me?
Sure. I provide support for parents who are trying to think about how they manage their own mental wellbeing while working with their children.
Please get in touch:
If you live in East Hertfordshire, and are registered with certain GP surgeries, there might even be a way I can help you for free. Find out here:
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