[Digital image]. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.pinterest.com/pin/448178600404406865/

Mindfulness relies on us knowing ourselves so we can authentically know others. When we practice mindfulness, whether through leading or following, we become open to the opinions and thoughts of others. Each day, we engage with people, whether that be our friends, co-workers, or the cashier at our local grocery store. I see these human interactions as opportunities to differentiate between discernment and judgment. Fully releasing judgment means acknowledging that everyone makes sense of the world differently. Being mindful is essential for Servant leadership to exist. Releasing judgment is what allows me to feel sincere empathy for others and that is where authentic Servant leadership begins. This isn’t always easy, but the benefit is that when others feel served, they are invited to release their own judgments which inspires their own personal growth.

Being mindful requires presence. When I’m present, my emotional intelligence is heightened. This allows me to open up to others. Furthermore, it makes them more willing to open up to me, which is a gift. Mindfulness allows Servant leaders to understand how they make sense of the world, which in turn makes them more thoughtful leaders. This requires work. It means continuously questioning the mind’s assumptions. I engage in mindfulness through my yoga practice. Yoga is about meditation and focusing on the breath. It’s challenging at times, but similar to life, these are the times when growth and transformation happens. Yoga has allowed me to be mindful of crossing the threshold and embracing the process. I start each work day with my yoga practice and often pause throughout the day for a few moments of restorative breath. Breathing in the positive and out the negative. My personal challenge is staying committed to this presence. While I have days at yoga and at work that I am truly engaged and present, I have others where I’m creating checklists in my mind of all the things I should be doing instead of focusing on the gift of the present moment. I constantly have to remind myself that meditation is a continuous work in progress and a life-long journey to become a more mindful leader and human being. I’m grateful to have this wisdom early in my Servant leadership journey. Namaste, my fellow aspiring Servant leaders.

Food for Thought:

1. In what ways can you engage in mindfulness each day?
2. In what ways have you experienced the emotional and spiritual benefits of mindfulness (whether that be within yourself or through observing another?)