The Art of Being Present: Conquering Internal Busyness Syndrome

The Art of Being Present: Conquering Internal Busyness Syndrome

We all know how incredibly easy it is for our attention to be pulled in a million different directions. As we juggle work, personal relationships, and endless notifications, we often fall victim to a phenomenon we call "Internal Busyness Syndrome." It’s when we become so consumed by our thoughts and distractions we miss out on valuable interactions and experiences.

The Consequences of Internal Busyness Syndrome

When we're not fully present during a conversation or meeting, we're shortchanging ourselves and the people around us. It can be disheartening for a colleague who has spent hours preparing a presentation only to see us multitasking in the back of the room. 

One Thought at a Time

Our brain is a linear processor, meaning it can only hold one thought at a time. Embracing the mantra "one thing at a time" can help us curb our internal busyness and become more present in our daily lives. 

To put this into practice, try pausing for a moment and taking note of your current thoughts. Are you focused on the task at hand, or are you already planning the next part of your day?

Tips for Staying Present

To help you stay present while listening and engaging with others, here are a few suggestions:

Take notes: Writing down key points during conversations, meetings, or presentations can help you stay focused and engaged.

Minimize distractions: Turn off notifications on your devices or activate "do not disturb" mode. If you're in your office or have your laptop, turn away from your computer screen during conversations.

Practice mindful body language: Maintain eye contact, avoid crossing your arms, and provide feedback through open-ended questions or small comments like "uh huh" to show you're engaged.

Organize Your Way to Presence: Being organized can help you stay present and focused. By managing distractions and having tools in place, you'll be better equipped to stay in the moment and concentrate on the task at hand.

The Power of Presence

Overcoming Internal Busyness Syndrome and staying present not only boosts our productivity but also fosters healthier, more meaningful relationships with those around us. By practicing these tips, you can break free from the shackles of internal busyness and harness the power of being truly present in your professional and personal life.