| September’s throughline for dialogue and reflection is Listening is a Superpower. In the five issues this month, we explore the benefits of better listening, the psychology of tuning out and practical steps to be an effective listener. |
You might think I was distracted if you and I had a conversation twelve years ago. You might have noticed I was less attentive, even blurry.
What you wouldn’t have seen – just below the surface – was the overwhelm—an underground torrent.
Or my mind is drifting to other items on the ‘list’—the constant attention triage.
I struggled with poor mental health.
It was the year I took on a new Deputy Principal job. As a young father and Year 5/6 classroom teacher, I was overwhelmed most of the time.
What was missing?
- The colleagues around me who could help. I was deputising, but not for anything worthy of being called leadership.
- The strategies to remain centred on the moment I was in. I was constantly pulled in a hundred directions.
- The knowledge or mental models to understand what I was going through. ‘Sink or swim’ was not a choice.
I choose to be fully present
Today I focus on the present because I can control that. I can bring all of my experience, understanding and focus to what is here, right now.
I practice it when I am meeting or talking with others. I choose to see them in high definition, not changing the channel or letting my thoughts blur the signal.
I am getting better at it, and I know that persistent practice has made a difference over many years. I choose to be settled and focused on what I experience.
There is something powerful and freeing about that choice.
Why it’s Important to Focus on the Present
When we are fully present, we can focus all our attention on the task. We aren’t letting our minds wander off to other things or distracted by outside influences.
This laser-like focus can lead to greater productivity and creativity and improved mental and emotional well-being. One 2003 clinical intervention study showed that higher levels of mindfulness were related to lower mood disturbance and stress levels.
Nyanaponika Thera (1972) called mindfulness “the clear and single-minded awareness of what actually happens to us and in us at the successive moments of perception.”
In a world where we are constantly bombarded with distractions, the ability to focus our attention on the present moment is becoming increasingly rare—and valuable.
The benefits of being present extend beyond the individual level. When fully present with others, we can build deeper relationships based on trust and understanding.
We are also better equipped to resolve conflicts and find creative solutions to problems.
The bottom line is that paying attention to the here and now can profoundly impact our lives, both personally and professionally.
If you’re looking to improve your focus, listening, and creativity, the practice of being present is a great place to start.
⏭🎯 Your Next Steps
Commit to action and turn words into works
- Pay attention to your level of presence. How often are you fully present with others? What activities or situations make it difficult for you to be present?
- Make a conscious effort to be more present in your interactions with others. This could mean putting away your phone, making eye contact, and listening without interruption.
- Notice the benefits of being present. How does it impact your relationships, creativity, and well-being? Share what you’ve learned with others
🗣💬 Your Talking Points
Lead a team dialogue with these provocations
- The next time you’re feeling overwhelmed or distracted, remember the power of being present.
- Paying attention to the here and now can improve your focus, listening, and creativity.
- How are your professional relationships being harmed by your inability to be fully present?
