When I hear the word mindfulness, I think of someone sitting quietly in deep meditation. It feels passive and disconnected. For me, it conjures up an image of a Zen CEO. It just doesn’t seem to fit in a business connotation.
However, when I replaced mindfulness with thoughtfulness, everything shifted. Thoughtfulness is active and focused. It requires effort and intention to solve a problem.
Here’s how you can be a thoughtful leader:
1. Thoughtful leaders give full attention to the task or person in front of them.
They don’t just listen—they engage. They put aside distractions and are fully there in the moment. When you are present, you show respect and understanding.
2. Thoughtful leaders don’t rush.
They pause before responding. They consider different angles and weigh the impact of their decisions. This leads to better outcomes. Reflection creates clarity.
3. Pressure is constant in business. Thoughtful leaders don’t panic.
They step back and take a breath. When you stay calm, you can assess situations clearly and make better decisions. This calm also inspires confidence in your team.
4. Thoughtfulness means looking beyond your own view.
Thoughtful leaders ask questions and seek feedback. They work to understand how others see the situation. This builds trust and leads to more informed decisions.
5. Reacting is emotional and often impulsive. Thoughtful leaders take time to craft a response.
They think about the best way to handle a challenge and use their words carefully. This helps create positive outcomes and avoids unnecessary conflict.
People are impatient. Everything is measured in download speed. If you order something off of the Internet you expect it to be delivered before you hit send. In a world where patience is rare, great leaders set themselves apart through the practice of thoughtfulness.
Growth and innovation don’t come from working harder; they come from thinking smarter. Strategic thinking is the key to unlocking new opportunities and getting unstuck.
On October 15, 2024, at 11 AM EST, Join me for a FREE 40-minute webinar, How to Be a More Strategic Thinker. Stay ahead of market shifts, make decisions that align with your vision, and build a cohesive team attuned to your business goals.
No Wasted Time: I know how valuable your time is. That’s why this webinar is packed with practical advice and tools—no theories or hypotheticals, just real-world strategies you can apply immediately.
Sign up now to secure your spot—spaces are limited for an interactive experience.
