Being present with people can be surprisingly transformative in our personal lives and business. It’s easy to slip into autopilot, focusing on daily tasks or mentally checking off our to-do lists. But this weekend, I experienced how much we miss when we don’t fully engage with those around us.
How Being Present with People Changed My Perspective
Like many of us, I often zone out during the routine moments of the day. Waiting in line or sitting in a waiting room usually leads me to check my phone or mentally organize my day. But this past weekend, I discovered what I had been missing.
On Saturday, I went to a new salon with my mother-in-law. As she finished her hair, I opened my laptop to get some work done. But then, an older woman sat beside me, and something made me pause. Rather than diving into work, I stayed present and conversed. She captivated me with her life story—how she’d lived everywhere from the islands to New York and now resides in Tampa, caring for her disabled husband.
At that moment, I learned about her resilience, family traditions, and wisdom in life. “In life, we all have our trials, but God is good,” she shared. Her words reminded me of the importance of humor and grace through life’s challenges. Those 40 minutes with her, left me inspired and grateful, a reminder that fantastic stories are around us if we stay present.
A Christmas Tree Lot and Another Lesson on Being Present with People
Later that evening, my husband and I finally found “the tree” after a long search. While waiting for the tree to be tied down, I conversed with the lot owners. hey revealed they travel 11 months a year, working on the carnival circuit outside of the holiday season.
What amazed me most was their commitment to family and education. Not only did they homeschool their children, but they set up a mobile Christian school in an RV for children in their community. Their story reminded me to think outside the box and find creative ways to pursue our dreams—no matter how unconventional they may seem.
Why Being Present with People Matters to Your Business
What do these stories have to do with your business? Simply put, businesses thrive when we invest in people. Your team, your clients, and even you deserve to feel connected and valued. I once heard an employee express disappointment that, after four years, her boss didn’t even know her child’s name. She didn’t expect him to be deeply involved in her personal life; she just wanted to feel acknowledged.
Take time to engage with your employees and show interest in what matters to them. These small moments of connection can lead to a stronger, more motivated team. And team members—have you taken the time to get to know your boss? Often, leaders carry incredible stories that can inspire and deepen your own sense of purpose at work.
Clients Are People Too: Connect by Being Present
Your clients are also a wealth of wisdom and experience. By taking the time to connect, you can uncover what truly matters to them and how you can best serve their needs. This intentionality provides insight into their values and priorities, helping you to create lasting relationships and exceptional service.
Life Beyond Our Own Thoughts
Life outside our heads is far more exciting and rewarding than within our own routines. By being present with people, we gain insight, inspiration, and a renewed sense of purpose. Check out our free resources on fire.h50.us/~hrgnmpwr/dev2/ for more tips on connecting with your team and clients. Embrace the world beyond the screen—the stories and connections you’ll find are well worth it.
Champions of your continued success,
Laney and Molly
