Between client work and writing a second book, it was amazing to take a few days off. This photo was taken in the Luxembourg Gardens, one of my favorite spots in Paris. It reminded me how powerful it can be to pause, whether in a beautiful place like this or back at the office.
In a world of constant deadlines and digital distractions, we often forget that one of the best ways to build relationships, whether with clients, colleagues, or new contacts, is to be fully present. It’s also an essential way to increase focus when at work.
Here are five ways I (am trying to) bring presence and focus into my day:
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Block out time in my calendar—whether for a vacation, an hour at lunch, or just a quiet 10-minute break—to focus on something unrelated to work. I love gardening, so sometimes a 5-minute break to visit my vegetable garden can be helpful.
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Put away devices. During work conversations, put your phone down and silence notifications. This small gesture signals that you are giving your full attention. I try to utilize the Do Not Disturb function on my desktop.
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Take a breath. Before meetings or calls, take a moment to breathe, clear your mind, and set the intention to listen and engage fully. This is a big help for me.
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Revisit the familiar with fresh eyes. I’ve visited the Luxembourg Gardens before, but this time, I noticed new details I missed in the past. Try returning to familiar places, ideas, or even clients, and see what new insights emerge.
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Experiment with time-blocking techniques. Explore different approaches to structuring your day. I adapt some of the Pomodoro Technique (thank you Annalisa Reale for introducing me to this), working in focused bursts with breaks into my schedule.
Adapt what works best for you to make time for both productivity and presence.
Presence isn’t just for quiet gardens—it’s a mindset I believe we can bring to every conversation.
I would love to know what others are doing to stay present and focused.
