Edition #27

Will You Notice the Now?

Life and leadership move fast. It’s easy to rush:

• Meetings back-to-back

• Deadlines looming

• Afterschool playdates

• Emails and notifications pinging constantly

• Friends over for dinner

When we’re not present, we miss the details that matter, the team member struggling, the small win, or a child quietly asking for attention. Presence allows us to notice, respond, and connect in ways that matter both at work and at home.

Ask yourself:

• Where am I physically present but mentally elsewhere?

• Which moments today deserve my full attention?

• What distractions can I set aside to truly engage?

Challenge:
Pick one meeting, conversation, or family moment today to be fully present. Put your phone aside, focus on listening, and notice what you normally miss.

Will You Lead Yourself With Focus?

Being present starts with self-leadership. You can’t show up fully for others if your mind is elsewhere.

Ask yourself:

• Am I multitasking when I should be focusing on one thing, whether at work or with my family?

• Are my thoughts wandering toward the next task instead of being here now?

• How can I slow down without losing momentum?

Challenge:
Before your next task or interaction, work or home can you pause for 2–3 minutes. Breathe, centre yourself, and approach the moment intentionally.

Read from James Clear on how to improve Focus.

Will You Help Others Be Present?

Your presence sets the tone. Teams and families alike notice when you’re fully engaged. When leaders are attentive, people feel valued and safe.

Ask yourself:

• Do I create space for others to share without distraction?

• Am I acknowledging effort, not just results?

• Am I modelling attention and curiosity in every interaction?

Challenge:
During your next team or family conversation, listen more than you speak. Ask follow-up questions and notice the impact of giving your full attention.

For more you can read five steps on how to bring the best out of others in this Forbes article from 2014.

P.S If you missed the last edition, you can go back and review it here