As the holiday season approaches, it’s easy to get swept up in the whirlwind of activities, responsibilities, and to-do lists. But even in the hustle and bustle, there’s one gift that you can give the people in your life as a leader that’s better than anything else: the gift of presence.
If you’ve ever been sitting in a meeting with someone, only to realize they’re giving you a thousand-mile stare and not really listening, you’ll know how it feels to be with someone who isn’t present. Having presence is a necessary skill for leaders that fosters connection, builds trust, and inspires growth.
Why Presence Matters
In today’s fast-paced world, distractions are everywhere. From the relentless buzz of notifications to the never-ending mental checklist, it’s all too easy to let our attention wander. But when we fail to be fully present, we send an unintentional message to the people we’re with: “You’re not important.”
Imagine sitting in a meeting, pouring your heart into solving a problem or sharing an idea, only to see the person across from you checking their watch or scrolling through their phone. It’s disheartening. As a business coach, I’ve seen this scenario play out countless times, both with mentors and clients. It’s no wonder so many people feel overwhelmed and undervalued.
The truth is, presence isn’t just about listening with your ears. It’s about hearing with your heart. When you truly engage in a conversation, you create space for others to feel seen, heard, and respected.
The Leadership Ripple Effect
As leaders, our actions set the tone for our teams. When we model presence, we create a culture where attentiveness and empathy thrive. Here’s some simple habits you can start to have more presence:
Put Away the Distractions: Flip your phone over, close your laptop, and silence notifications during meetings. Show your team that their input matters more than the next email.
Listen to Understand: Don’t just wait for your turn to speak. Digest what’s being said, ask thoughtful questions, and respond with intention.
Lead with Empathy: Recognize that every conversation is an opportunity to connect and inspire. Whether it’s resolving a problem or celebrating a win, your presence makes all the difference.
Presence in Action
Recently, I had to make a difficult decision. A client faced a medical emergency and needed me to fill in for an important event. At the same time, I was scheduled to pursue an opportunity I’d dreamed of for years. After some honest conversations, I chose to be present for my client.
While the situation didn’t unfold as I’d hoped, something incredible happened. A colleague who truly listened to my story took it upon himself to find a way to help me achieve that dream in the future. That’s the power of presence: it opens the door to extraordinary moments of connection and kindness.
A Challenge for the Season
This holiday season, I challenge you to embrace the gift of presence. Whether it’s in a team meeting, a family gathering, or a quiet moment with yourself, be fully there. Put away the distractions, listen with your heart, and give others the respect they deserve.
Because when we lead with presence, we don’t just make others feel valued; we create a ripple effect of trust, harmony, and growth that extends far beyond the holiday season.
So, as you celebrate, reflect, and plan for the year ahead, remember this: People don’t need more presents. They need your presence.
Resources Mentioned
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