The Power of Purposeful Presence: How to Be Your Best Self

Flowers, berries and grasses

We’ve all heard it: "Be more present." It's a phrase we hear on podcasts, webinars, and see in countless books.

And it makes perfect sense. So much of our time is spent replaying the past—things that can't be changed—or worrying about a future we can’t control.

Yet, we rarely allow ourselves to be in the "now," fully immersed in the present moment.

The benefits of doing so are immense. According to Calm, BetterUp, and PositivePsychology.com, being present can lead to:

• Improved mental and physical health.

• Reduced stress and anxiety.

• Enhanced focus and concentration.

• Strengthened emotional intelligence and increased self-awareness

• Stronger relationships and greater empathy.

• Improved energy and motivation.

• A greater sense of happiness and appreciation for life.

  
  

Of course, being present isn’t easy. We juggle multifaceted lives with competing deadlines, multiple responsibilities, and the constant pressure to move forward and achieve. We're told that multitasking is the answer, and our phones are a constant distraction. For years, I was stuck in this cycle, too, until I set myself a new challenge: to be more present. It hasn't been easy, but I've discovered a few helpful strategies that have made a world of difference.

My Journey to Purposeful Presence

1. Be Intentional

You can't just expect to be present; you must create the space for it. Instead of hoping it happens, set an intention. For example, I told myself, "I intend to be present on my morning walk." This simple decision was the first step to making it a reality.

2. Choose a Focus

Find something specific to anchor your attention. While breathing and meditation are classic examples, you can also make a more active choice. The other day on my walk, I chose to focus on the flowers and grasses along the way. To reinforce my focus, I took photos of what I saw. This not only kept my mind from wandering to the past or future but also encouraged me to slow down and truly see the world around me.

3. Engage Your Senses

Being present is a full-body experience. Ask yourself: What can I see, feel, hear, smell, and taste in this moment? On my walk, I not only saw the vibrant colours of the flowers but also heard the birds singing, felt the warm breeze on my face, smelled the crisp scent of autumn, and tasted the freedom of being in nature. This multisensory approach deepens your connection to the moment.

4. Re-focus When Distracted

Your mind will wander. That's okay! It might drift to yesterday’s meeting or that difficult email you need to send. When it does, don't get frustrated. Take a deep breath, gently push the thought away, and re-focus on your intention. This small act of re-centring is a powerful exercise in building presence.

Taking these steps each day has enhanced the start of my morning and helped me feel more centred and calm.

How might you create space to be purposefully and intentionally present in the coming month?