Participating in a recent workshop on mindfulness created some deep learning for me. We were challenged to differentiate mindfulness from mindlessness through some very interesting activities. As we progressed through the content of the workshop I realised that far too many of us operate on automatic pilot when we are leading and as a
consequence lead in a mindless way. Now before you start challenging me on how ridiculous that comment is – let me define mindfulness for you – it is paying attention to what is happening for you in the present moment with curiosity, with openness and with flexibility – it is not about getting caught up in judgements about what is happening or focussing on future or present outcomes and details of tasks to be completed.
In essence then ‘mindless’ is where leaders are physically present however their mind is off somewhere else – thinking about the task, the outcome, solving the problem, thinking about phone calls to make, the future. However they are not conscious of what is going on in the present moment.
With these definitions in place then maybe more of you will agree with me that too many people lead mindlessly. When working with participants in our Courageous Leaders Leadership Development Program I notice how hard it is for many people to remain totally present throughout a 30 minute activity – where they are totally conscious of what is turning up for them and for others – especially emotionally.
Translate that to what happens in a meeting back in the workplace and I strongly believe we have ‘mindless’ people interacting. Recognise how readily people cast their attention to their phones while they sit in meetings with other people. If we could get inside their heads I believe we would see the range of diverse and unconnected thoughts that happened during the meeting that would also have nothing to do with the present moment.
So for the next week try to be a ‘mindful’ leader – let me know how you go – would love to hear your stories!
