💬 The Power of Presence in Conversations

💬 It hurt more than I expected.

I had waited weeks for this conversation. I prepared, reflected, and even rehearsed what I wanted to share. But when the moment arrived, I was met with half-eye contact. Someone was quietly typing behind their screen.

They nodded here and there. Yet, I could feel it — their attention was split. That split second of realization stayed with me long after the meeting ended.

This experience made me reflect not just on how I felt in that moment but also on how often I’ve done the same.

The Costs of Multitasking

Multitasking is everywhere. We often scan emails and respond to messages “just quickly.” We assume this behavior is efficient. However, to the person in front of us, it can feel like,

🕳️ “You’re not important enough for my full attention.”

That day taught me something I won’t forget:

➡️ Presence is felt. And absence is too.

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🧠 What I’ve Changed Since

Since that day, I’ve made several changes to improve my attention.

1. I close my inbox during meetings.

2. I move my phone out of reach.

3. I show visibly that I’m taking notes or inform the person that I’m writing down their words.

4. I started using transcription tools to capture key points while remaining fully engaged.

5. I also check if my presence is truly needed in every meeting I attend.

   
   

If I catch myself zoning out during a large group call, I ask:

👉 “Am I truly needed here, or am I just attending by habit?”

Sometimes, it's more powerful to say no to a meeting and choose to be present fully elsewhere.

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🤝 The Coaching Lens

As a coach, I’ve learned that listening goes beyond just hearing words. It involves interpreting the voice, pauses, tone, and what remains unsaid.

Human connection isn’t a bonus; it’s at the core of collaboration and innovation.

Whether you're engaging with your team, a client, or a friend,

✨ your presence conveys a powerful message.

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💬 Try This Small Shift

Before your next 1:1 or meeting, consider these questions:

• Why am I here?

• What’s my role in this space?

  
  

Then take these actions:

• Close everything you don’t need.

• Let the person know you’re taking notes, or try using a transcription tool.

• If your attention begins to fade, check in with yourself: Am I able to be fully present right now?

  
  

And if you can’t be — that’s okay. Just acknowledge it. Transparency is far better than pretense.

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🌱 A Reflection for Leaders

As a leader, consider how you can enhance the level of attention you give your team:

• How do you demonstrate that your team has your full attention?

• When was the last time someone made you feel deeply heard?

• Could fewer meetings — with deeper conversations — foster more trust?

• Are there instances where distractions have become the norm? Why?

  
  

Presence is a choice.

In a world full of noise, your undivided attention can feel like a cherished gift.

Find Your Wave,

Sarah 🌊

#HumanCenteredLeadership #InnovationCulture #DeepListening #LeadershipPresence #TrustBuilding #CoachingForLeaders #AttentionMatters #PsychologicalSafety

P.S. This principle goes beyond the workplace. It's applicable with your kids, partner, and even your dog. For example, when Rose 🐶 wants to play and I quickly glance at my phone, she notices. Consequently, she walks away and lies down. Similarly, during a dinner date, true connection happens when you are fully present.

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