A Reminder of the Beauty in Staying Present
I recently joined a guided art walk in Philly with DaVinci Art Alliance, where I am also a member and community supporter. We spent about an hour together exploring sidewalks, alleyways, walls and street signs in search of sticker art, a form of street art you can find on pretty much every block in this city.
As we stopped to snap photos of our favorite finds, I was struck by how many I had missed previously walking around these same neighborhoods. I think there's something to be said about what we fail to see when we're so focused on the next step that we lose sight of what's in front of us.
Staying present allows us to process the messages we receive, whether we're in the community, or in the workplace. Responsive leadership and strategic thinking depends on how well you can participate in active listening and awareness of what's happening around us.
When managing client deliverables, I'm often using real-world examples to provide context around why a decision is made based on what I'm seeing and hearing in daily life. Hypothetical scenarios can be helpful, but there is a balance point that should include integrating the conversations and interactions where we live and work.
Today, I challenge you to look up and notice the small details around you.
What are you seeing?
What do these objects, colors or words mean to you?
How can you apply these examples to the choices you're making?
How can you share those learnings with others?
More than anything, I hope this practice brings you a feeling of being centered in the moment and a deep connection to our shared spaces.