I love Mondays...
I love Mondays.
Yes, I know that might sound a bit odd, especially if you're used to hearing the Monday blues complaints. But let me explain why Mondays hold a special place in my heart.
They're my day with my daughter—a day I’ve deliberately carved out to be free from work, emails, and to-do lists. It's our one-on-one time, and it starts with her swimming lesson, which often leads to a splash in the pool afterward if she's in the mood.
These moments are pure joy. Watching her proudly show off her newly learned skills, the way her eyes light up when she reaches the end of the pool and looks for my approval—these are the moments that make my heart swell. They are precious, unfiltered, and irreplaceable. And I wouldn't trade them for anything.
But something else often catches my eye while I'm at the pool. The other parents. Many of them are there physically but seem miles away mentally. Heads down, fingers scrolling through their phones, their eyes rarely glance up to catch their child's triumphant swim. I understand; life is hectic. Work doesn't stop just because it's swim time. But I can't help but think—what are they missing?
Every time my daughter looks up at me, searching for my smile, my nod of encouragement, I'm reminded of how much these moments mean—not just to her but to me as well. And yes, I have my phone out too. But not for emails or texts. I’m capturing these moments, immortalising them so she can proudly show her dad when he's home and share her achievements with the rest of our family in our shared photo album.
This got me thinking about something deeper—something that translates into business just as much as it does in life. Being present. Fully, wholly, undeniably present.
When we give our clients or colleagues only half of our attention, we're sending a message: "This moment isn't important enough." But when we're fully engaged, listening, and truly invested, that's when the magic happens. That's when trust is built, relationships are strengthened, and success becomes inevitable.
Imagine sitting in a meeting where everyone is distracted by their phones or thinking about their next task. Now contrast that with a meeting where each person is fully engaged, contributing ideas, and truly listening. The difference is palpable. It’s the difference between just getting through the day and making every moment count.
So here's the truth: those moments you think you can multitask through? Those are the moments that matter the most. Whether it's watching a child conquer the pool or guiding a client through a critical decision, being present is everything. It's the difference between a mundane experience and one that is meaningful and impactful.
Let’s make a conscious effort to put down the distractions and be there—truly be there. Because those are the moments that define us, in business and in life.
And if you ever see me at the pool with my phone out, don’t worry—I’m just making sure the whole family gets to see the next Olympic champion in action!
