Be Present: How to Practice Mindfulness During the Holidays
Be Present: How to Practice Mindfulness During the Holidays
So much to do, so little time. For most executives, it’s natural to always be on the move. With the new year just around the corner, it can be even more overwhelming to juggle your personal and professional life. Making the effort to slow down, be present, and breathe can help relieve the stress.
According to the New York Times article, “How to Be More Mindful at Work,” mindfulness is “paying attention to the present moment in an accepting, nonjudgmental way.” Learning and practicing mindfulness can be an effective way to help you get through the busy holiday season, manage stress, and even improve your next job search.
Incorporating Mindfulness In a Job Search
Looking for a new job? Reflect on the following questions:
- Why are you looking for a new position?
- What is lacking in your current position?
- Have you exhausted all of your resources within your current organization and still feel unfulfilled? (i.e. have you voiced your concerns and discussed with your supervisor, have you checked for better fitting positions internally, etc.)
Answering these and other similar questions before going through the motions of a job search may help you realize you may not need to leave your current employer or position. Instead, there might be a solution within your current company to create the change that will make both parties happy, whether that be simply adding responsibilities or moving into a different role.
However, if finding a new job is still the best option for your current situation, keep in mind that it’s about quality over quantity. Rather than sending your resume anywhere and everywhere, mindfully choose to apply for the jobs that resonate with you the most and pursue them with full purpose and intent. Focusing only on opportunities that truly interest you will naturally boost your enthusiasm for the role and desire to research the company that is hiring. This in turn may help you in the application and interview process and increase the likelihood of receiving an offer.
Bristol Associates’ President Ben Farber incorporates mindfulness in his daily life.
“Incorporating mindfulness into my daily life over the past year has helped me remain calm and thoughtful during stressful situations (i.e. meeting deadlines) that come up during the work day. As a result, I am happier, more productive and the overall quality of our service has risen to a new level.”
Mindfulness Challenges for the Holidays
Here are three challenges to help you kick off your mindfulness journey during the holidays. Try to practice all three challenges for one week and compare how you feel before and after.
- Silence your phone and put it away whenever you engage with your friends and family. Be fully present with the people you are with.
- Avoid using your headphones — try listening to the sounds around you.
- At the end of each day, write down three things that you have accomplished and reflect on them.
A fresh start doesn’t always equate to needing drastic changes, small ones may make a world of difference. A shift in attitude and perspective can also go a long way. Often times we mindlessly go about our daily routine without any thought or focus.Take a moment to turn your attention inward and become aware of yourself, your emotions, and your surroundings. Basic observations and deep breaths are key. It really is that simple.
‘Tis the season to be mindful!
Bristol Associates, Inc. is an executive search firm with over 50 years of excellence in recruiting nationwide. Bristol specializes in recruiting for the Casino Gaming; Hotels and Resorts; Travel, Tourism, and Attractions; Facilities and Concessions; Food and Beverage Manufacturing; Restaurant; Hospital and Healthcare; and Nonprofit industries.
If you’re interested in working with Bristol Associates, click here if you’re an employer or here if you’re a candidate.
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