Presence is the art of truly being there.
In a world where so many people are constantly busy, constantly thinking, constantly reacting, and often already on to the next step before the present one has even been lived, presence has become a rare thing.
And yet it is perhaps the most valuable thing a person can radiate.
Listening is one of the highest forms of presence.
When listening, many people do not intend to truly understand what they are hearing. They focus on giving intelligent replies. They remain trapped in their own thoughts whilst the other person is speaking.
But genuine listening means something else.
Listening means switching off one’s own thoughts for a moment in order to truly hear what the other person is saying. It means freeing oneself from preconceived opinions, letting go of the need to comment on every topic immediately.
Listening means focusing one’s intention on understanding. Being empty inside, open, attentive and still.
A good listener gives the other person space. Time. A sympathetic ear. And they know: what is heard is a gift. A privileged glimpse into the very core of the other person, which could never be experienced in superficial small talk.
Presence is evident precisely where we no longer have to prove that we know something, but simply are there.
But presence doesn’t end with listening.
Presence is also the visible joy of life.
No matter how much knowledge you acquire – without joy, you will remain invisible.
As mentors, teachers, coaches and founders of the MGSGT School of Life, we see our role not only in imparting techniques, but also in sharing a special way of living life. Finding joy in what you do. Joy in the world. Joy in the time we spend together.
For all that knowledge, all those effective tools, serve no purpose if presence, visibility and leading by example are lacking.
Presence is embodied truth.
It is also reflected in our actions.
Self-realisation consists of doing everything you do consciously.
When I eat, I eat mindfully. When I walk, I walk consciously. When I speak, I speak with my mind and heart.
Many people act unconsciously. They do one thing whilst their awareness is long since elsewhere. That is precisely where they lose themselves.
But when we bring our full awareness to the things we do, our lives change. We become more alert. More grateful. More clear-minded. More present.
And from this presence, decision-making also arises.
The more we take time for ourselves, find inner peace and recognise our inner voice, the more the activity of the mind transforms into a special quality.
We develop the ability to perceive things accurately and fully, to make the right decisions, to follow our inner voice – and not to lose touch with ourselves.
Living in the present moment does not mean being extraordinary.
It means being genuine.
Being there.
With the person in front of me.
With the life within me.
With joy in what I do.
With awareness in everyday life.
For where there is presence, that is where what truly works begins.
Gianna
