In this hustle-bustle world, our most valuable commodity is time. Make the most of the little time you have each day with the game-changing art of what we call “present tasking.”
Present tasking is being fully engaged in the task or moment in front of us without allowing distractions or worries about the future or past regrets to pull you away. Essentially, it’s the practice of focusing on a single task at a time in a culture that glorifies multitasking.
Full plates
Here’s a scenario many Scentsy Consultants face: You’re looking at a 10-minute wait in the school pickup line before the bell rings. Maybe you need to spend that time following up with customers, brainstorming a new seasonal marketing strategy, coaching your team or placing a few orders. Instead of letting your mind wander off to after-school snacks, homework, dinner, dishes, baths and bedtime, take those minutes to focus completely on your business. Those moments become incredibly valuable when approached with full presence of mind and intention.
All about it
Consider the wisdom shared by former Boise State University and University of Washington football coach Chris Petersen, who taught his winning teams the importance of being “all about it” in every aspect of life. On the field, in classroom, during leisure time, the idea is the same: Give your full attention to whatever you’re doing in the moment. Petersen’s philosophy highlights the transformative power of presence.
In the context of direct sales, being “all about it” means showing up mind, body and spirit for your business endeavors. Give your customers, prospects and team members your undivided attention. Listen actively, empathize genuinely and respond thoughtfully.
By being fully present in these interactions, you’ll strengthen relationships and increase your chances of success.
Relationships
Present tasking extends from your business to your whole life. Use this approach when spending time with family, pursuing hobbies or even taking a well-deserved moment to relax. Challenge yourself to be fully present. Resist the urge to check your phone (unless it’s time for your phone), mentally plan your next move or dwell on past mistakes. Immerse yourself in the present moment and embrace it.
Practice, practice, practice
You can train yourself to focus completely on whatever task is in front of you, from hardcore work to ultimate relaxation. But, let’s be honest. It’s much easier said than done. We’re constantly bombarded with notifications, emails, social media updates and the constant pull of life responsibilities, adulting, electronic devices and short hot takes.
Try these tips to start your present tasking journey:
- Start with small bouts.
- Begin with easier tasks. Take on dauting tasks down the line.
- Break large projects into smaller chunks.
- Each day, choose the most important things to accomplish that day. Start with your most important task (try to keep your present tasking to-do list to three items).
- Set a timer, if necessary, and slowly increase the blocks of time you spend on tasks.
- Take breaks between work bursts for mental recovery.
- Set a tight deadline to help keep your focus.
- Revel in the joy of completing the time or the task!
- Remember the goal is progress, not perfection.
Incorporating present tasking into your life requires both practice and patience, but the rewards are well worth the effort. You’ll see greater efficiency and productivity and cultivate a deeper sense of fulfillment and satisfaction in life.
Share your best “live in the now” tips in the comments!
