Over the past several years, many large corporations, such as Google and General Mills, have started implementing mindfulness programs. What exactly is mindfulness? It’s the ability to stay focused — even with all that’s bombarding your senses in any given moment. It’s about doing things right. It’s about resisting the temptation to multi-task. Mindfulness is the practice of honing in on what you’re doing in the moment and moving past all of those distractions in today’s fast-moving society.
Research shows that many people simply aren’t present during important activities throughout the day. In fact, it’s estimated that people on average spend 47% of their time each day thinking about something else other than what they are doing. Crazy, don’t you think? Studies show all that mind-wandering is not good for creativity, productivity and performance. For leaders, it can lead to a disconnected and poorly engaged team who think you aren’t truly listening to them. Wondering how mindful you are? This quiz can help give you an idea.
In the leadership setting, one of the most important benefits of being mindful is the bonds made with employees. Do you truly listen to your employees when they approach you with questions and concerns? Do you give them your undivided attention? Or are you thinking about everything else you need to do that day while they are talking? Do you glance around the room, at your cell phone or at your watch when someone is talking to you? How well do you know your employees? During the time you spend with them, are you getting to know their opinions and needs, or are you … thinking about something else? It’s important for leaders to know that being able to maintain focus and concentration and being able to approach every day in a mindful manner is a life-changing leadership skill.