ARE YOU REALLY PRESENT?

I admit I am guilty. When things get busy, I find myself juggling emails, texts, and chat messages all at the same time. I try my best to determine what I need to do, want to do, and should do to make the most out of the limited time. I let my head buzz with various tasks and the danger is when I let that feeling last too long. While I pride on getting a lot of things done, in truth, I also know my best productivity is when I dedicate my time more deeply on one item at a time.

Furthermore, the more people I meet and work with, the more I am reminded of how important this is in working with more people.

When was the last time you gave your 100% attention to the person right in front of you? When was the last time you had a weekday lunch without looking at your phone for a full hour?

When was the last time you made yourself present to a friend who really needed you?

I look back at all the people who were there for me and who listened to me. The mentors who stopped and gave me a chance to grow. The friends who gave time and a hug of encouragement. The colleagues who listened and challenged me to go further. They have helped me be the person I am today because they stopped their busyness to be fully present with me. And no matter how small that time was, it had a lasting impact. And I would bet that you would be able to count those moments too. The moments when others were there for you and the moments when you stood there for others.

Time is one thing that everyone has equal of, but it is up to us to choose how to use it.

Staying distracted is not only hurting your productivity, it is also hurting your relationships and your very own self.

So today, I challenge you to be more present.

Be there for someone who really needs you today. Listen. Meet where they are. Have the courage to be fully present.