I talked about this concept with a colleague recently and she shared what a difference it has made for her in the way she leads her life and the pleasure she takes from life.
She reiterated to me the importance of both aspects :
1. To be present with what is happening; and
2. To be in the present.
Firstly you need to be present with what is happening for and around you. So many people have lost this capability especially with the invasion of technology into our personal space. Physical presence is completely different to emotional and “real” personal presence. Take a few moments to reflect on the difference and assess what you bring.
For example when you are in the park pushing your child on the swing – you are physically present – but are you 
emotionally and personally present with your child? Or is your mind wandering and thinking about the “to do list” awaiting you? Or worse still are you on the mobile phone – talking, texting or emailing?
Secondly live in the present. For some of us this is an enormous challenge as the “right hand of our personality” commands us to live in the future. This means we find it hard to switch off and just find the present enough. Pure joy is possible from experiencing the present moment and truly focussing on each small element in the moment. As opposed to allowing your mind to wander away from the present and involve energy into a future that is yet to be clearly articulated.
Try it for a day – just be present with everything that is turning up and make it acceptable to “live” with it. Feel your brain relax and find stronger focus.
Courageous Leaders can be present ……in the present – how about you?
