The end of the year, and a decade. WOW. How did that happen? Where does time fly?
For me the end of the year is a time to slow down, pause and reflect on the many gifts and lessons I’ve received over the last 12 months and plan for the new year ahead. It’s a time to get quiet and go within.
And as the clock continues to tick away, it also reminds me of how precious each moment is; the moments that we share with family, friends and colleagues. Realizing what’s important in each day as well as the value of living life fully in each moment – to use our gifts as best we can in service of others, in whatever form that may take. Through our work, our businesses, our community and our families.
Whatever your profession is, however you spend your time each day, ask yourself – “How can I give more of my full presence to each moment?” Whether you’re sitting quietly by yourself or you’re in a room full of people over the holidays, how can you bring your full attention and an open heart to the situation? As you do this, you give the gift of yourself at a deeper level, leaving an indelible mark on others.
Now, you may be asking yourself, what does this have to do with how I run my business or how I do my job? Everything actually. Have you ever experienced working with someone who was distracted with too many things, reading their email while talking to you or lost in some other thought? What was the impact of that experience on you?
In other words, what’s the impact that you want to leave others with? What kind of impact can you leave that will make a difference for others? Think of it as a subtle personal and professional marketing campaign that will keep your customers coming back, your team inspired, and leave your friends and family knowing how much you care by giving them your full attention.
Yes, I know we all have full, busy lives – often times too busy to genuinely connect with the people around us. But it is these connections, these moments in time where we can see each other as human beings, instead of bosses and employees, competitors or colleagues, that we open ourselves to a richer experience of life – even if it is just for a moment.
Because in the end, this moment is all we have. So make the most out of each moment that you can. Give the gift of your presence, your talents, your brilliance – to your family, friends, colleagues and customers. Inspire them to step more fully into their own light and gifts in each moment and see what kind of positive ripple effect it has.
Thank you for your contributions big and small, wherever you may be as you read this.
With gratitude,
Michele
