ACROSS THE MILES

"BE HERE NOW"

"J" had just returned from a leadership class from his work.He was trying to tell me what the class was about but I was busy trying to get dinner ready, so he sets this sign on the table which read"BE HERE NOW" and asked me to read it."What on earth is this and what does it mean" I said.

He began to explain to me how two people can be talking and one person is not really there.So often when we are at work we are busy thinking of home, the children and maybe what we will be doing on the weekend. At the same time when you are at home you may be thinking of work and the project you have to complete.The class also says that you cannot be effective in either if you are not there mentally and physically.We are often caught up in the past or the future that we lose our ability to be present in the moment.We do the same things at home.we are distracted with things going on at work that our relationships suffer and we lose valuable time that we could have spent with our loved ones because we are constantly thinking of work.

Another point that "J" brought up was the ability to listen.Listening to what is being said with an open mind rather than judging whether the person or the content is right or wrong.This allows you to see the other person's point of view.

I began to understand maybe that's why sometimes "J" and I don't see eye to eye .Maybe because one of us is not listening and we are quick to come to conclusions.I decided to read the book he brought home.It is written by the "Senn-Delaney consulting group" I learned quite a few things and I am trying to use it in my life.

The value of being here now

Better balance of personal life....The more that we can fully be present both at home and work the more we will have a rich, fulfilling environment in both places.

Easier, more fulfilling relationships...when people feel heard and appreciated, they feel better about you and themselves.

Less stress, more peace of mind....when we think about the past or worry about the future, our thoughts can often create stress and reduce our peace of mind,

Better creativity.. When you are in a reflective state of mind you can think better and you are more creative, that's because there are no distractions.

"Behavior is a mirror in which everyone displays his own image" Johann wolfgang

Another quote that i really liked."Some people are making such thorough preparation for rainy days that they aren't enjoying today's sunshine. William Feather.

Part two of this class will be posted next. I learned a few things from this book so thought I would share it with you.