As a leader, colleague, partner, friend and human being you are always making an IMPACT.
So, I recently went on a 10-day silent meditation retreat and…
At 4pm on day zero, a little anxious and definitely curious, I arrived, checked in and settled into my simple but comfortable room. That evening, I chatted with a couple of fellow female attendees over a delicious vegan meal. After dinner we received our instructions and made a personal commitment for the 10 days: No mobile phones, no books, no paper or pen, no eye contact, no talking….and the silence began.
We all immediately took to this new way of interacting, or not interacting – together. A good reminder how, as human beings, we are super quick to adapt to agreed, shared behaviours, rules and cultures. What was instantly fascinating was even though we could not speak or look at each other, every one of us was still making an impact on each other. Whether sitting opposite someone at lunch, standing next to someone at the bathroom sink, seeing someone walking in the garden during a break or feeling someone shift position on the adjacent meditation mat…every one of us was always making an impact.
I was reminded of something we often say to 4D course participants – “on the catwalk of leadership, you are always on display.” At home or at work, as a partner, parent or leader, even if you are not in conversation with anyone, even if you are not looking at someone and even if you think no one is looking at you – you are ALWAYS making an impact. This might be a surprise to you AND it can also be a huge opportunity. After all, this means that every minute of every day is a chance for you to create a positive, memorable and meaningful impact on people you don’t even speak to or meet!
Impact Tip
So, how can you make a more positive impact in every moment?
TIP: Spend one day dialling up ‘Connection’ with others. Being more CONNECTED by making more eye contact and giving your full attention to people even if only for a few seconds – creates a strong impact of presence and charisma. Dial up that one quality and notice the instant positive impact you make on those around you.
“There’s no greater gift than thinking that you had some impact on the world, for the better.”
Gloria Steinem