Mindfulness is a state of focused awareness. It occurs when you’re fully engaged in the present moment, rather than thinking about the past or the future, or just being disengaged.
We often associate mindfulness with meditation, but of course we can do anything — from making tea to holding meetings — mindfully.
Mindful engagement is the skill that gives you the power to choose where you focus your attention, and gain valuable, memorable experience.
Why is it useful?
There are significant benefits to being able to engage mindfully with what’s before you.
First, when you focus fully on what’s happening outside of yourself, you can collect richer data on the world or workplace, and your perceptions are usually more accurate.
Second, when you’re able to focus your attention on other people, and listen to them fully without distraction, you make them feel heard, important and respected.
So it’s no surprise that mindful engagement is a core part of what we call “charisma”, or executive presence. And when others experience you as someone who cares about them, they’re more likely to be motivated to follow you.
