Do you feel like people do not listen to you? Do you listen to them? There are many reasons to improve upon your ability to listen. They include the opportunity to connect and build trust, which is the most important element that should flow through communication. Plus, when we learn to listen better, we acquire to ability to learn from each other as we move forth as partners and collaborators.

Studies tell us that deep listening is on the decline. According to the National

Institutes of Health, there’s a Listening ‘Crisis’, driven by digital overload. Listening is

a vital skill to strengthen because, especially in the workplace, we spend more time

listening then we do speaking. And very few people have been trained how to

sharpen these skills and listen ‘actively’. Ahhhhhh....but there\'s hope! When you have the guidelines. And you APPLY.

We humans deal with lots of Communication Habits…such as people pleasing…and perseverating/ruminating/over thinking.

How can you overcome or at least decrease or unwind these super common habits?

Try Dr. Judson Brewer’s : 3 Step Habit Change process… Dr. Jud is a neuroscientist and addiction psychiatrist…who I’ve been fortunate enough to study with.

Dr. Jud’s 3 step process is called the Mindshift Method and uses the analogy of Gears: Like on a Car or Bike.

1. Awareness: Is this that habit loop again? Notice it…stay aware…

2. Curiosity (sans judgment…zero into the results): What am I getting from this? …How does it feel in the body (embodying results…)?

3. BBO? Could I try something different? Compassion - breathe - take a walk or call a friend. Is there a BBO that’s different that you could consider?

When you tap into the Mindshift Method… 3-step process…remember, you’re in learning mode…SLOW DOWN…staying off electronics…stay present.

And know…that even you …I…can update our habits…when we’re aware.

Executive and Leadership Presence begins with your ability to focus and be fully present.

That’s harder than ever. With so much competing for our attention—our ability to engage, listen, and hold meaningful conversations has been compromised.

Research…A Harvard study found…our minds wander almost half of everyday. Autopilot is fine for routine tasks, but when it becomes the norm, it undermines both engagement and happiness. People who struggle to stay present feel less satisfied and more disconnected.

To counter this, start by noticing when your mind drifts. Then ask: Is this affecting my ability to concentrate, connect or communicate? If so, you might want to consider the practice of becoming more present. I can send you a brief audio to help get you going with that…. Just message me.

Presence is the foundation of Executive Presence—at every stage of your career. It’s a skill you can strengthen…even in this distracted world…with practice and over time.