To be mindful means having the ability to see the whole picture. Not just the one you feel fits best. It means mentally getting out of the way and allowing for a greater awareness to take over: operating from the highest self that advocates for a better and brighter future for all. This is indeed a practice that can and will change the trajectory of your entire business — if you are willing to put in the effort.
As a leader, you will spend most of your life at work, thinking about what you wish you had done and what you still want to do. As work takes up so much of your thoughts, it’s essential to cultivate a healthy daily practice that helps you stay present and mindful.
Being mindful unlocks leadership powers
Leaders hold a huge responsibility. Others look to you for advice, guidance and an understanding that everything will work out. Therefore, practicing mindfulness each day and connecting to our breath can help you to unlock your power, connect with your team and stay rooted in the present.
Everything in life is built on connection and trust, and without these things, nothing can grow. The success of any organization depends on the overall health and resilience of the entire team from the top to the bottom. Although many leaders may envision themselves at the top of the pyramid, they would not survive without the tireless support of the employees who create stability and structure in the pyramid of the organization.
The truth is that everyone depends on one another, whether they “like” it or not. This is where the difference between being a short-term leader and a long-term leader comes in. The short-term leader will see themselves as separate from the team, guiding from above. They might thrive on creating a sense of fear in their company culture, and although this might get the wheels spinning at the beginning, it’s unsustainable in the long run.
By contrast, a long-term leader will connect deeply with their people by being present every day with encounters with their team, no matter how big or small. They will listen carefully to their entire team, whether that’s saying hello to the receptionist or discussing difficult issues in the boardroom. The exceptional leader makes it a priority to remember specific details about their employees, whether that’s moving home, a wedding or their child graduating. They will take the time to listen and absorb what is happening in the lives of their team.
5 qualities of successful leaders
The very essence of a successful leader is based on several qualities, including:
- Presence. The practice of true listening without mentally preparing a counterargument or their own experience, and truly sensing where the other person is at without judgment.
- Empathy and vulnerability. The ability to relate deeply and honestly to one another. All relationships are built on trust, and we can only ever go as deep with anyone as we are willing to share and show our vulnerability.
- Motivation. Choosing to stay focused on the endless possibilities in any given situation and to shine the light no matter what.
- Dedication. Staying devoted to a shared mission and set of values.
- Discipline. Commitment to daily actions, even when the going gets tough.
It’s important to lead by example and not by aggression, fear or control. Choosing mindfulness and presence each day is to say yes to the possibility of a better and brighter day for yourself, your loved ones, your clients and your colleagues.
Leaders who choose to be present and stay compassionately curious of the lives of their team, will feel more connected to those around them and will be happier, which will create a positive ripple effect. This will impact not only the inner circle of the organization but will extend outwards to reach the lives outside the team as well.
At the root of everything, most humans are good and want to do good. The power of kindness and togetherness can be enormous, so let today be the day you start a mindfulness revolution — and become more grounded, present and kinder in your team.
Your future self will thank you — and so will the opportunities and expansion that follow.
Opinions expressed by SmartBrief contributors are their own.
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