Your brain is constantly on the go, processing information from every which way. Often it can be hard to turn it off at night as it keeps on going long after your head hits the pillow. It’s all about finding balance.
What Is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness is one way to achieve this balance. It enables you to be fully aware of your surroundings, paying attention to what is happening around you. Your mind is not focussed on what has been or what is yet to be, but in the here and now, balanced and connected to your surroundings.
Practicing mindfulness in both your personal life and in your career has many benefits, particularly in a leadership role. Not only does it enhance your skills when it comes to client observation but it also allows you to remain focussed and present at all times.
In stressful situations, mindfulness helps you to remain grounded and keep you aligned with your goals. One interesting aspect of this technique is the ability to stay non-judgemental. It doesn’t allow you to compare “subject a” to something in the past but moreover to view its attributes just as they are occurring.
Modern day scenarios have you multi-tasking on many levels – talking and texting, or checking your messages, as an example. Why do you do this to yourself? What is wrong with carrying out a conversation without having to respond to the warble of your smart phone? Yes you are busy, but you aren’t allowing yourself to be fully in tune with each scenario as they present themselves. It is possible to think, experience and make decisions without the unnecessary interruption that accompanies the balancing act that occurs on a daily basis. It just might take some practice.
How To Achieve Mindfulness?
Stimulation – You naturally achieve mindfulness when exerting yourself in a physical activity such as basketball, aerobics, weight lifting, etc. Your body is essentially living in the moment. Your body is prepared for action and sensory involvement – if your mind wandered the results could be problematic. Brains on autopilot are checked at the door.
Relaxation – Yoga, meditation and simple relaxation exercises can help you in your quest to quieten your busy mind. Even just focussing on a piece of music that soothes you, can do wonders for your mind and soul. There are special techniques like the Sedona Method which can help you to release any negative feelings and allow you to release your feelings to move on if mastered correctly.
“The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.”
– Eleanor Roosevelt
As Eleanor said so eloquently, the purpose of life is to live it and experience it in that moment without wishing for something that you may never or ever experience. Sometimes you can miss out on a lot of the great stuff that is happening right before your very eyes. Next time you catch yourself multi-tasking or losing balance – stop; practice your mindfulness and see what you can achieve, all the great leaders do.
