How Being Present Makes You a Better Leader (and Friend)

Imagine you’re at a bustling wedding reception, the air filled with dhol beats and the clinking of bangles. You’re catching up with friends between plates of delicious jalebis. Do you ever find your mind wandering, like a stray rangoli pattern washed away by a monsoon shower, away from the vibrant celebration? This disengagement, like the fading melody of a shehnai, might leave your friends missing your full attention.

Perhaps, even as you chat, a part of you worries about future goals, like a student preparing for their next big exam. Do you find yourself strategizing for the future, like planning the perfect moves in a game of chess? And when those plans, like unbloomed jasmine buds, don’t come to fruition just yet, does a feeling of unease settle in?

By anchoring yourself in the “abhi” (now), you can truly relish the jalebis, the lively music, and the company of your friends. Let go of future anxieties, like a leaf surrendering to the gentle flow of the Yamuna river. In those quiet moments, appreciate the simple joy of being present, like finding solace in a silent prayer.

Remember, the present moment is a precious gift, like receiving a beautiful Shagun (wedding blessing). Embrace it, for it holds the sweetness of true connection and inner peace – just like the joy of celebrating with loved ones.

The concept of “Be in Now” emphasizes the importance of being fully present and engaged in the current moment. Adopting this habit can have significant benefits both in your role as a manager and as a human being. Here’s how it can help:

Improved Decision Making: When you’re fully present in the moment, you’re better able to assess situations, gather information, and make decisions based on what’s happening now rather than being influenced by past experiences or future concerns. This can lead to more informed and effective decision-making in your business.

Enhanced Communication: Being present allows you to actively listen to your team members, clients, and stakeholders. You can pick up on subtle cues, understand their needs and concerns better, and respond appropriately. This can lead to improved communication and stronger relationships in both personal and professional contexts.

Increased Productivity: When you’re fully engaged in your tasks and projects, you’re less likely to be distracted by irrelevant thoughts or external stimuli. This can help you focus better, manage your time more effectively, and ultimately increase productivity in your business.

Better Stress Management: Being present can help you manage stress more effectively by reducing worry about the future or ruminating on the past. Instead, you can focus on what you can control in the present moment, which can help alleviate feelings of anxiety and overwhelm.

Enhanced Creativity and Innovation: When you’re fully present, you’re more open to new ideas, perspectives, and possibilities. This can foster creativity and innovation in your business as you’re better able to think outside the box, explore different solutions, and adapt to changing circumstances.

Improved Work-Life Balance: Being present not only benefits your professional life but also your personal life. By cultivating the habit of being in the now, you can enjoy and appreciate moments with loved ones, hobbies, and activities outside of work, leading to a healthier work-life balance.

Overall, adopting the habit of “Be in Now” can have profound benefits for both your business and your personal well-being. As a manager, it can help you lead more effectively, make better decisions, and foster a positive and productive work environment. As a human being, it can lead to greater fulfillment, happiness, and overall satisfaction with life.