The Greatest Gift: The Power of Presence

As I drive and reflect on life, one thought consistently rises to the surface: presence is the greatest gift we can offer—to others and ourselves. But what does it truly mean to be present? Perhaps it's easier to start by considering what is present is not.

We’ve all experienced moments when someone wasn’t fully with us, whether in a business meeting, a casual conversation, or a personal interaction. In those moments, we felt unseen, unheard, and undervalued. The disconnection that results from a lack of presence can leave us feeling isolated and insignificant as if our words and emotions were lost in a void.

Now, imagine flipping that scenario. Consider the impact when someone is fully present, engaged, and actively participating in the moment with us. The opposite occurs—we feel valued, seen, and heard. In the work we do with brave spaces, this concept is fundamental. It’s incredible how a simple act of showing up and being present can transform any relationship, be it personal or professional.

The Profound Impact of Presence

Think about your day. Imagine being fully present with everyone you encounter—free from the burdens of past regrets or anxieties about the future. This is a powerful goal and a mindset that has the potential to revolutionize your interactions. Presence fosters connection, while the absence of presence perpetuates disconnection—a state many of us have unfortunately become accustomed to, even though it often feels uncomfortable. Despite this discomfort, not being present has become the default mode for many of us.

So, what prevents us from being present? The answer lies within our minds. Our brains are wired in such a way that our subconscious controls about 80% of our daily activities. This means that unless we consciously decide to be present, we miss out on the depth and richness of our connections and relationships.

The Science Behind Presence

Studies in psychology and neuroscience suggest that we are only about 20% present during any given day. This startling statistic highlights the significant room for improvement in our daily lives. Imagine how different your relationships and interactions could be if you were to increase that percentage, even slightly.

Presence is not just a philosophical idea; it's a skill that can be developed and refined. One effective method to enhance your presence is through breathwork—a simple, yet powerful tool that can help you ground yourself in the present moment.

A Practical Guide to Presence: The Power of Breath

Presence and grounding are just seven breaths away. The next time you find yourself distracted or unfocused before a meeting or conversation, take a moment to centre yourself with seven deep breaths. Inhale deeply, hold for a moment, and then exhale slowly. Repeat this process, focusing only on your breath.

This simple technique can bring you back to the moment, allowing you to create the connections we all long for. It can change any relationship. Before you focus on what to say or how to frame your thoughts, ensure that your state of being is conducive to creating a genuine connection.

The Benefits of Practicing Presence

For many, the idea of being present can seem daunting. In a world filled with constant distractions, how can we possibly hope to maintain our focus on the here and now? The answer lies in practice. The more you practice being present, the more natural it becomes. Over time, you’ll find that being present not only transforms your relationships but also enriches your own experience of life.

When you are truly present, you open yourself up to the beauty of the moment. You notice the subtleties in conversations, the emotions behind words, and the shared humanity in every interaction. Being present allows you to connect on a deeper level with those around you, creating bonds that are based on mutual respect and understanding.

But the benefits of presence extend beyond your relationships with others. Being present also enhances your relationship with yourself. When you are fully in the moment, you are more in tune with your thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations. This self-awareness can lead to greater clarity, peace, and a deeper sense of fulfillment.

The Journey of Presence

The journey to becoming more present is ongoing. It requires patience, practice, and a willingness to be vulnerable. But the rewards are immense. You’ll find that only good things come from being present—whether it’s the deepened connections with loved ones, the enhanced effectiveness in your professional life, or the inner peace that comes from living in the moment.

So, I encourage you to start practicing presence today. The next time you’re with someone, whether it’s a colleague, friend, or family member, make a conscious effort to be fully present. Listen with intention, engage with sincerity, and let go of any distractions that might pull you away from the moment.

You’ll be amazed at how this simple shift in focus can transform your relationships and your life. The gift of presence is one of the most powerful tools we have to connect with others and to experience the fullness of life. Embrace it, practice it, and watch as it opens up new dimensions of connection, understanding, and joy.