Tag Archives: Margaret Smith life coach
September 25, 2024 5 Tips to Be Present
We live in a distracted society. A survey in 2023 found that, “Americans spend an average of four hours looking at their cellphones every day, checking them at least 144 times a day.” That statistic is frankly appalling. Even if it is wildly inaccurate and we decide to divide the findings in half, that still means we spend two hours absorbed in our phones every day, and glance at our screen 72 times. And this doesn’t include all our other distractions—TV, email, video games, and more.
This week, I’d like to talk about being present, why it matters, and how to be more mindful in your everyday life.
(I discussed this topic in a video I produced a while ago. If you’re interested, click here.)
Why Being Present Matters
Your presence matters in both your personal and professional life. Your presence means something to others, whether your family, co-workers, or boss. When you are present, you are able to fully engage with the people and tasks in front of you. This leads to deeper connections, increased productivity, and a greater sense of fulfillment. Conversely, when you are distracted, you miss important details, struggle to be an active listener, and fail to capitalize on your time.
Being present allows you to live in the moment and make the most of each interaction. It is also a sign of respect. When you’re present, you convey that you value the person or task at hand. You are not preoccupied with the past or future, but fully engaged in the moment. This builds trust, strengthens relationships, and helps you be more productive and fulfilled. Ultimately, being present is a skill that takes practice, but the benefits are immense. It allows you to savor life’s moments, connect more deeply with others, and make the most of your time and energy.
5 Ways to Be Present
If you’re hoping to improve your focus and be more present in daily life, I suggest trying some of the following five tips:
Eliminate distractions
When possible, turn off your notifications, silence your phone, and attempt to create a distraction-free environment. This will support your goal of being present.
Practice mindfulness
Take a few minutes each day to focus on your breathing and be fully present in the moment. It’s a good idea to build this into your schedule, so you get into the habit of doing it.
Single-task
Multitasking is usually ineffective and often leads to sloppy or incomplete work. It is much better to lend your full attention to a single task. To do this, try setting a timer and focusing on one specific task for fifteen or twenty minutes. Repeat.
Schedule tech-free time
Set boundaries around when you will and won’t use your devices. For example, you could decide not to use your phone during mealtimes or after a certain time in the evening. Stick to these tech-free periods to be more present with your loved ones or to wind down before bed.
Reflect and recharge
Take regular breaks throughout the day to pause, reflect, and recharge. This could involve a short walk, meditation, or simply sitting quietly for a few minutes. Giving your mind a break will help you return to tasks feeling more focused and present.
Being present and minimizing distractions is crucial for personal and professional success. By making a few intentional changes in your life, you can train your brain to stay focused on the present moment. This will lead to deeper connections, increased productivity, and a greater sense of fulfillment. Remember, being present is a skill that takes practice, but the benefits are well worth the effort. Start implementing these strategies today to make the most of your time and energy.
MARGARET SMITH IS A CAREER COACH, AUTHOR, INSIGHTS® DISCOVERY (AND DEEPER DISCOVERY) LICENSED PRACTITIONER, AND FOUNDER OF UXL. SHE HOSTS WORKSHOPS FOR PEOPLE WHO NEED CAREER OR PERSONAL GUIDANCE.
CHECK OUT MARGARET’S ONLINE LEADERSHIP COURSE.
Tags: 5 tips to be present, be present, gift of being present, Margaret Smith licensed Insights practitioner, Margaret Smith life coach, tips for being present
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- Posted under Advice from a Life Coach, Communication
September 4, 2024 The Case for Prioritizing Yourself (at least sometimes!)
During the fall season, much attention is given to kids (or grandkids) and to our work. Some of us are ushering kids back to school, sports, and extracurricular activities. Or we’re preparing for the final (often intense) quarter of the work year. And, sometimes we have to do both. That means our already busy lives often become even more hectic. With so many responsibilities and expectations, when can we possibly find time for ourselves? And why is finding that time so important?
It’s easy to neglect our own needs when we’re constantly focused on taking care of others and meeting professional obligations. However, making time for self-care is crucial for our overall well-being. When we prioritize ourselves, even if just for a few moments each day, we’re better equipped to handle the demands of our busy lives. Taking a break to recharge, reflect, or pursue a personal interest can boost your mood, reduce stress, and improve productivity.
Far too often, however, we neglect self-care. We plow through our daily to-do list with hardly a pause or a moment to ourselves. This constant motion and busyness can lead to burnout, increased stress, or even health issues (both physical and mental). I understand why people go-go-go, but the truth is, that breakneck pace isn’t sustainable.
How can we carve out time for ourselves? How can we make self-care part of everyday life? Try these four tips:
Make It a Habit
If you make an intentional effort to incorporate self-care into your everyday routine, it will happen naturally and consistently. James Clear, author of Atomic Habits suggests tacking on a new habit at the end of a routine that has already been established. For example, after you finish brushing your teeth in the morning, you could do a brief, ten-minute mat workout, or read for a few minutes, or simply sit quietly and take a few deep breaths. The key is to attach the new habit to an existing one, so it becomes part of your daily routine. Over time, it will feel strange not to do your self-care activity.
Schedule It
Another approach is to block off time on your calendar for self-care, just as you would for a meeting or appointment. This ensures you actually follow through and take that much-needed break, rather than letting other priorities crowd it out.
Involve Others
If possible, partner with others on self-care activities. Form a book club, schedule regular workouts with others, establish a monthly coffee or dinner date with friends, or practice a favorite hobby with people you know and enjoy. Practicing your self-care with friends helps keep you accountable for actually following through with prioritizing yourself.
Find What Works for You
The most effective self-care activities are the ones that you genuinely enjoy and find replenishing. For some, it might be a relaxing bath or a quiet walk. For others, it might be reading, journaling, or listening to music. Experiment to discover what recharges your batteries and brings you joy. The key is to find activities that align with your personal preferences and needs. Don’t feel obligated to do what others recommend if it doesn’t resonate with you. Self-care is a highly individualized practice, so honor what works best for you.
Carving out time for yourself, even in small increments, can have a profound impact on your overall well-being and ability to show up fully in other areas of your life. As we approach this often busy time of year, I encourage you to establish self-care habits that work for you. Whether it’s a daily meditation, a weekly hike, or a monthly spa day, make your own well-being a priority. Remember, taking care of yourself allows you to better help others and tackle your responsibilities with more energy and focus. Invest in yourself, and you’ll reap the benefits in all areas of your life.
MARGARET SMITH IS A CAREER COACH, AUTHOR, INSIGHTS® DISCOVERY (AND DEEPER DISCOVERY) LICENSED PRACTITIONER, AND FOUNDER OF UXL. SHE HOSTS WORKSHOPS FOR PEOPLE WHO NEED CAREER OR PERSONAL GUIDANCE.
CHECK OUT MARGARET’S ONLINE LEADERSHIP COURSE.
Tags: Case for Prioritizing Yourself, Margaret Smith life coach, Margaret Smith Minneapolis career coach, schedule self-care, self-care a habit, self-care and success
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- Posted under Advice from a Life Coach, Changing Your Life, Thrive at Work
August 28, 2024 Why to Take a Social Media Detox
It’s okay to disconnect. You do not always have to be plugged into the news, celebrity gossip, or the latest social media trends. In fact, these things might be having an adverse effect on your mental and emotional health. At times, it might be best to simply step away and take a social media detox.
It is no secret that social media can toy with our emotions. We often see either the best or the worst of humanity, which can either leave us depressed or make us question our self-worth. On the one hand, we can be exposed to bad news, cruelty, and nasty comments…and moments later we might see a post featuring a “perfect” family making French toast together in their “perfect” kitchen. This yo-yo effect can give us emotional whiplash and leave us feeling uneasy, guilty, or depressed. And recent studies back this up.
According to researchers Lawrence Robinson and Melinda Smith of Help Guide, “Multiple studies have found a strong link between heavy social media [use] and an increased risk for depression, anxiety, loneliness, self-harm, and even suicidal thoughts.”
Social media can also affect a person’s self-image. When we constantly compare ourselves with others, we can’t help but feel inadequate. And the truth is, we’re comparing ourselves to an impossible standard. Most people will only publish the most polished, edited, and filtered versions of themselves on social media, while neglecting to include the messier parts of their lives. This can lead to feelings of low self-esteem, body image issues, and even depression.
Additionally, the constant need to check social media and receive validation through likes and comments can become addictive, further contributing to mental health problems.
To be clear, I am not suggesting that we all become completely disconnected and uninformed about current events. However, taking a break from social media can provide a much-needed respite. It allows you to focus on the present moment, engage in real-world interactions, and cultivate a healthier relationship with technology. By stepping away, you can regain a sense of control, reduce feelings of anxiety and depression, and reconnect with your authentic self. A social media detox can be a powerful tool to improve your mental well-being and foster a more balanced and fulfilling life.
To actually achieve a little distance from social media, I suggest the following tactics:
- Turn off notifications for social media apps on your devices
- Set aside specific times of the day to check social media, rather than constantly scrolling
- Unfollow accounts that make you feel inadequate or negatively impact your mood
- Replace social media time with other activities that bring you joy, like reading, exercising, or spending time with loved ones
- Consider a complete social media detox for a set period, such as a week or a month, to reset your relationship with these platforms
A social media detox can be a powerful way to regain control over your digital life and improve your overall well-being. By setting boundaries, curating your feed, and replacing social media time with more fulfilling activities, you can reduce feelings of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Remember, it’s okay to disconnect and prioritize your mental health. Embrace the present moment, engage in real-world interactions, and cultivate a healthier relationship with technology. A social media detox can be a transformative experience, empowering you to live a more balanced and fulfilling life.
MARGARET SMITH IS A CAREER COACH, AUTHOR, INSIGHTS® DISCOVERY (AND DEEPER DISCOVERY) LICENSED PRACTITIONER, AND FOUNDER OF UXL. SHE HOSTS WORKSHOPS FOR PEOPLE WHO NEED CAREER OR PERSONAL GUIDANCE.
CHECK OUT MARGARET’S ONLINE LEADERSHIP COURSE.
Tags: Margaret Smith life coach, Margaret Smith Minneapolis career coach, social media break, step away from social media, unplugging from social media, why take social media detox
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- Posted under Advice from a Life Coach, Changing Your Life, Communication
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