Being Mindful vs Mind FULL
It may seem counter intuitive....that when you feel you have NO TIME for anything...is when you should slow down and practice mindfulness.
Mindfulness is the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us.
The Moment
I don't know about YOU but the last couple of weeks have seemed particularly hectic. The pressure is on to deliver in multiple areas at work... change is a constant in Corporate America... there are layoffs...organizational changes... depending on where you live the weather hasn't helped... on and on and on...
My theory is that in these moments...we tend to buckle down... and become "ME" centric. Our minds are full of "to do" lists and constantly spinning. We don't have the time...the emotional or physical energy to do anything else other than what WE are dealing with.
Sound familiar?
The Gift of Mindfulness
I am grateful...amazed...and inspired that I have come to recognize...that in these moments...there is an opportunity to slow down and practice mindfulness.
For me...it can best be described as...
being present and not only paying attention to how I am feeling/reacting but more importantly paying attention to those around me...and making time to connect
I have found that being mindful of others clears out all the cob webs and settles my overactive mind.
I realize that for those few that I am able to give and receive that gift...there are no doubt many others that I miss. In practicing that mindfulness and connection I would like to believe the outcome is that I am not as reactive or overwhelmed as I could be in the next moment...and the moments after that.
Ways YOU Can Experience the Gift of Mindfulness
Mark an Occasion. Take time to send a note...a card... a text... a call or a small homemade gift to celebrate someone around YOU. Take JOY in their moment and that gift will most likely bring YOU...and those around you... joy too!
Check In. Set up time or reach out to someone YOU haven't talked to in a while. Put time on your calendar this week or into the future to just ask "how are YOU?". It isn't about YOU needing something it's about being present and hearing someone else's story. That alone can put a ton of things into perspective.
Embrace the Uncomfortable. There may be those around you who are experiencing challenges that you simply aren't aware of or are uncomfortable talking about (i.e death in the family...health issues...etc..) Be mindful not only your stress...but also how their reaction to things may be contributing to "the moment" you find yourself in. Don't be afraid to send a kind word or offer assistance to make THEIR moment easier.
Read the Room. While we may not always be in the same room...the sentiment still applies. Even though YOU may be experiencing stress or a bit overwhelmed... the "room YOU are in" may be trying to help YOU or needing some inspiration. Go with the flow and you might be surprised how that flow is just what YOU need!
In Closing...
I somehow made time for all of the above this week...even though I didn't have the time. Surprisingly... it lightened my load... changed my outlook and helped me to see some things more clearly.
So here I am... headed into the weekend with my heart full and my mind clear. While there is still a lot to do I am reflecting on all the joy that others around me are experiencing (promotions... work anniversaries... birthdays... weddings... new jobs... new beginnings). I also feel grateful for those I am expressing care and concern for as they are the most important of all!
How about YOU?
Leadership Questions of the Week for YOU:
How do YOU define mindfulness and what are the ways you practice it?
What do YOU take away from the idea of Mindful vs Mind FULL?
Have YOU found that being aware of others when YOUR head is spinning helps to reset or clear out YOUR mind?
What do YOU think of the ways you can practice the gift of mindfulness? Any others you would add?
Can YOU reflect on a moment this week where you made a connection with someone else that left your heart full and your mind clear?
Can YOU think of a moment where you shied away or missed an opportunity to connect with someone because it made you uncomfortable or you weren't sure if you should?
Thanks for reading….and remember…YOU make a difference!
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