Bringing Presence to Everyday Activities

Mindfulness isn’t just about sitting in meditation; it’s about bringing a sense of presence and awareness to all aspects of our daily lives.

Bringing mindfulness to your work can improve focus, productivity, and job satisfaction.

It can be tricky to manage, especially when our stress levels are high and we try to juggle multiple tasks and priorities on any given day.

Personally multi-tasking has never really worked. I end up with a thousand tabs open in my mind and on my computer and I rarely feel productive at the end of the day.

I much prefer the idea of single-tasking. Focusing on one task at a time without jumping like a grasshopper from task to task, operating in a state of distraction.

Here are a few ways to enhance your mindfulness in your daily work practices:

1. Start with Intention: Begin your workday with a clear intention. Take a few moments to set goals and prioritise tasks mindfully.
2. Single-Tasking: Focus on one task at a time instead of multitasking. Give your full attention to the task at hand. You may find you are more productive be operating in this way.
3. Take Breaks: Schedule regular breaks to step away from your work. Use these breaks to stretch, breathe, or take a short walk.
4. Mindful Meetings: During meetings, practice active listening. Be fully present with your colleagues, avoiding distractions and truly engaging in the conversation. Easier said than done; however, it does allow you to broaden your perspective and understanding if you can master this.
5. End with Reflection: At the end of your workday, take a few minutes to reflect on what you accomplished and what you’re grateful for, perhaps reflect upon what might you do differently tomorrow.

I notice at work, operating mindfully helps me stay grounded, reduces stress, and brings clarity.

It even helps me stay focused with the tasks I don’t particularly enjoy – let’s be honest, we all have them!

Give it a try! Start small, be patient with yourself, and enjoy the journey of living more mindfully.