Presence
The idea of being fully present is a hard one to grasp in our culture. I think most of us constantly live in a state of multitasking; trying to accomplish more, do more, be more. But what is it to just BE? One moment at a time, focusing on one thing at a time. Novel idea, right??
This concept is one of my biggest challenges personally. My mother and I joke that she lives in the “eternal present” and honestly I wish I was better about that! Presence is a present! Think of that gift of time and attention you’re able to give to yourself and loved ones. Having little people that demand your attention (Curly dog included) has really pushed me to drop other small tasks/ put things down in order to be fully present FOR them and for my own sanity. Forging those meaningful connections, through presence, are everything. With a to-do list that’s long, or a million chores to do around the house, this can feel like a near impossible task. But I’ve learned little micro-mindfulness skills to help my focus on the present:
Make a list. That way, when I have a moment to sit down and accomplish things, I can go down the list and check things off.
Schedule time for everything. Need to meditate? Put it on the schedule. Need time to focus on dishes/ housework? Schedule in time for that. Most importantly, need time to focus on family? Schedule that in too and don’t pick up your phone!
More time unplugged. My husband and I try to have “phone-free” time with each other and kids, so that our distraction level goes way down. That way we’re able to have meaningful, more connected conversations and time together.
If you’ve been in recently, you may have noticed us using our new clinical charting tool - AI Scribe (we always ask permission first). This tool uses the forces of AI for GOOD and allows us to be more present in the treatment room with all of you! Instead of feverishly typing everything you say, it allows us to have a more connected conversation while our robot takes very detailed HIPPA compliant notes (that we check of course). It’s making my time in the treatment room with you more valuable. So thank you for being open minded to the ways our technology is advancing, in order to forge those meaningful connections.
What are the little micro adjustments you can make to your daily life to enable yourself to be more present? Can’t wait to hear!
