Leadership is a multifaceted concept that encompasses many attributes
- Kirk Carlson
- May 27, 2023
- 2 min read

Leadership is a multifaceted concept that encompasses many attributes, including communication, decisiveness, empathy, and vision. One point often overlooked but essential to effective leadership is presented. Presence is the ability to fully engage and focus on the present moment and the people around you. It is a state of mind that allows leaders to create a positive impact and build trust with their team.
Presence can be seen as the opposite of distraction. Leaders who lack presence are often preoccupied with their thoughts, multitasking, or focusing on their next move. They may be physically present but mentally absent, leading to a lack of connection and trust with their team. In contrast, leaders with the attribute of presence fully engage with their team, actively listening and responding to their needs and leading by example.
One of the most critical aspects of presence is creating a positive and inclusive environment. A leader who is present can sense the mood of their team and respond accordingly. They can provide emotional support and encouragement when needed and recognize when their team needs time and space to work independently. By being present, leaders can build trust and loyalty with their team, leading to higher productivity and job satisfaction.
Presence also allows leaders to lead by example. When a leader is fully engaged and present, they can model the behavior they expect from their team. They can demonstrate the importance of active listening, being fully present, and focusing on the task. By setting an example, leaders can create a culture of mindfulness and presence within their team, leading to better communication and collaboration.
Leaders who possess the presence attribute can also handle challenging situations more effectively. When faced with a crisis or unexpected event, a present leader can remain calm and focused, which can help alleviate anxiety and fear within their team. By being fully engaged and focused, leaders can make more informed decisions, communicate more clearly, and respond to situations more effectively.
In conclusion, presence is a vital attribute of effective leadership. Leaders who possess this attribute can create a positive and inclusive environment, lead by example, and handle challenging situations more effectively. Leaders can build trust and loyalty with their team by being fully engaged and focused on the present moment and the people around them, leading to higher productivity, job satisfaction, and overall success.
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