Managers are the driving forces of their organizations. They are constantly concerned with forward movement, growth and new projects. While future goals are essential in keeping a business alive, leaders must guard against a problem that often accompanies the “next thing” mindset. It is when management fails to attend to what is happening now. Learn methods for becoming “present” in the moment to fully support your workers, your customers and yourself.
Take time to stop moving and simply observe every day. When you are too focused on what is going to happen rather than what is happening, you blind yourself to present issues that need attention. Teach yourself to look carefully at the present functioning of your business. What are your employees placing their primary attention? What does the body language of customers suggest? Answering these questions will help you decide what immediate actions to take.
Involve your employees in a real discussion. Ask them questions concerning present concerns. Practice active listening in which you focus on exactly what your workers say instead of busying yourself with formulating a response. Don’t accept vague answers, dig deep to discover exactly how your employees are feeling and performing. Determine what you can do in this very moment to make things better.
Confront the main issue of the day rather than putting it off. Focus completely on this single task until you complete it. Eliminate distractions and thoughts of future objectives while you concern yourself with the immediate need. Complete concentration on the work in front of you puts you in the “flow” so you can accomplish what is necessary now. It is only when you manage the present that good things can happen in the future.
Tackle the difficulties involved in being “present”. Your employees and customers will appreciate knowing they can count on you in the moment. Watch your business improve as you take charge of the day.
