How to Embrace the Present in Today's Uncertain Business Environment
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Chapter 1: The Call for Normalcy
Everywhere we turn, we hear the plea, "We must return to normal!" It echoes in our minds and resonates in our hearts, a yearning for stability and routine—better than before, ideally. But what if that familiar normal isn't on the horizon? What if we're destined to navigate through continuous disruptions and uncertainty longer than we anticipate? Despite the challenges, our businesses must persist, and we need to earn a living.
In light of this, we might consider relinquishing our fixation on the future and instead embrace the present. Here are thirteen strategies to help you appreciate the now. Keep reading to discover how captivating it can be to live in the moment.
Just Show Up
Utilizing the present moment in business can begin with a straightforward action: showing up. As the saying goes, "80% of success is simply showing up." Attend meetings, honor commitments, and fulfill your roles for clients. This basic form of presence serves as a fundamental anchor for those around us who may be yearning for stability.
Peter Adler, a master mediator, shares a poignant story in his work, "Bringing Peace into the Room." He notes that while mediators assess their performance based on professional standards, participants often remember them as the individuals who opened the room, brewed coffee, and introduced everyone.
Just Listen
When you find yourself at a loss for words or actions, listening is always an option. Pay attention to yourself and others. In "Say What You Mean: A Mindful Approach to Nonviolent Communication," Oren Jay Sofer outlines three core principles for genuine communication:
- Approach with presence.
- Cultivate curiosity and compassion.
- Prioritize what truly matters.
These principles can greatly enhance the effectiveness of your listening skills.
Just Do Nothing
In a self-employed context, there always seems to be something demanding your attention. However, the next time you're unsure of what to tackle, consider the value of doing nothing. Relax on the couch, take a nap, and allow yourself to recharge. Medium writer Jessica Wildfire discusses this path in her article, "The Great Burnout: Everyone's Tired and Fed Up."
Explore Intentions
Lois Gold, a social worker and mediator, emphasizes the importance of intention—bringing mindful awareness to your values and purpose. Reflect on what matters most to you, and set clear intentions for your home, work, client interactions, and daily activities. Observe how this awareness affects both your presence and the reactions of those around you.
Explore the Second Circle
The concept of the "second circle," introduced by acting coach Patsy Rodenburg, describes an optimal space for effective interaction with others. It embodies a centered exchange of energy that suits the moment. This can be contrasted with "first circle" energy, which is withdrawn and self-focused, and "third circle" energy, which tends to be brash and inconsiderate of others' boundaries.
Explore Nonverbal Communication
To remain present, tune into your body. Stretch, breathe deeply, and relax your jaw while allowing a smile to emerge. Extend this awareness to your relationships. Nonverbal communication includes aspects such as body language, touch, vocal tone, personal space, and eye contact.
Identify and Address Your Needs
Unmet needs can often distract us from fully engaging in the present. By identifying what you require—be it inclusion, respect, or perhaps a glass of water—you can better attend to those needs. The Center for Nonviolent Communication (CNVC) provides a comprehensive list of human needs that can help you pinpoint your own.
Acknowledge and Release Your Emotions
Recognizing our emotions is crucial for grounding ourselves in the moment. Unacknowledged feelings can be a significant barrier to presence. By identifying, acknowledging, and understanding these feelings, we can release them and remain more centered. The CNVC also offers resources to help clarify your emotional state.
Reassess Your To-Do List
As Einstein famously said, "Compound interest is the eighth wonder of the world." In contrast, compounding tasks can lead to chaos. If you find your to-do list overwhelming, it may be time to reassess. Adjust your expectations and distribute tasks more realistically over several days.
Embrace the Present
The idea of "making yourself right, right now" involves adjusting your expectations to recognize that everything is perfect as it is in this moment. This practice can liberate you from unnecessary stress and allow you to focus on the present.
Hold Space for Others’ Brilliance
Marianne Williamson, in her "Talks at Google," described leadership as "holding the space for the brilliance of others." While many around us may be struggling, we can also recognize their creativity, resilience, and unique gifts. Embracing the present allows us to foster this brilliance.
Perfect the Now
Thomas J. Leonard, a trailblazer in coaching, offers insightful advice in his book "The Portable Coach." He encourages readers to "unhook" themselves from future concerns and instead invest energy into perfecting the present. This shift can attract a brighter future naturally, without the need for relentless effort.
Be Attractive
Ultimately, living in the now is where we shine the brightest. When we avoid dwelling on the past or fretting about the future, we can fully engage with the present moment, maximizing its potential. In today's uncertain landscape, this approach is not just appealing—it’s transformative.
Sharon Woodhouse is the founder of Conspire Creative, specializing in strategic collaboration services for post-publishing author rewards, including coaching and project management.
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