MAKE TIME: Check out how you can make your every day matter through mindfulness!

Friday: Mindfulness by Miles FROM THE DESK OF MILES EVERSON: Hi! Happy Friday, everyone. I’m excited to share another helpful topic today. In these “Mindfulness by Miles” articles, I write about some health- and mindfulness-related practices, book reviews, and future of work (FoW) topics. My goal is to help you grow in both your career and personal life. For now, we’ll focus on making time daily for the things that matter to you. Keep reading to know some benefits you can get from this practice, as well as a few tips to help you develop this into a habit. CEO, MBO Partners Chairman of the Advisory Board, The I Institute

MAKE TIME: Check out how you can make your every day matter through mindfulness! Are you tired of feeling like time is slipping through your fingers? Do you find yourself constantly juggling tasks, yet somehow never getting to the things that truly matter? Have you ever felt like 24 hours in a day is never really enough? I’ve been there too, and let’s be real, that’s not a fun place to be in. However, I’ve also realized that in such a whirlwind of life, there is a way for us to find our center and focus on what truly matters every day. It all boils down to mindfulness and mastering the art of making time work for us. Picture this: You wake up in the morning, and you see the sun peeking through your window. From then on, your mind starts racing through the endless to-do list waiting for you. You feel the weight of the world on your shoulders, and you haven’t even stepped out of bed. Does this sound familiar? If it does, take a deep breath because the first step to making time work for you is mastering your mornings. Start your day with intention. What is it that truly matters to you? Is it spending quality time with your loved ones, pursuing a passion project, or simply taking care of your well-being? Whatever your answer is, let that be your guiding light throughout the day. Unleash the power of prioritization. Lots of people often find themselves overwhelmed by an avalanche of tasks, which are all seemingly urgent and important… but are all these tasks REALLY urgent and important? One of the ways to answer that question is to take a step back and assess what truly deserves your attention. Focus on those that align with your goals. Remember: Saying NO to the things that don’t serve you is just as important as saying YES to the things that do. Embrace the beauty of the present moment. How often do you find yourself lost in the regrets of the past or anxieties of the future? The thing is, the only moment that truly exists is NOW. So, embrace and cherish it, and be fully present in whatever you’re doing. Whether it’s sipping your morning coffee or engaging in a work project, immerse yourself in the experience. This not only brings a sense of fulfillment but also helps you stay focused on what matters. Making Time for What Matters to You Through Mindfulness One of the benefits of mindfulness is its ability to reduce stress. When you approach each task with a calm and centered mind, you’ll be better equipped to handle challenges with grace and resilience. Additionally, studies have shown that regular mindfulness practices can lower your cortisol levels—the infamous stress hormone—leaving you feeling more at peace and in control of your day. What else? Cultivating mindfulness fosters a greater sense of gratitude. When you’re attuned to the present moment, you begin to notice the small wonders of life that often go unnoticed. From the gentle breeze rustling through the trees to the laughter of a loved one, these moments of gratitude add a layer of richness to your daily experiences, fostering a more positive and joyful outlook. Below are some practical tips to help you integrate mindfulness into your daily routine: Morning Mindfulness Ritual: Start your day with a brief mindfulness ritual. It could be a few minutes of meditation, setting intentions for the day, or simply savoring a cup of tea or coffee in silence. Mindful Breathing: Whenever you feel overwhelmed or stressed, take a moment to focus on your breath. Inhale deeply, let the air fill your lungs, and exhale slowly, releasing any tension or anxiety. This simple practice can help ground you in the present moment. Priority List: Instead of a never-ending to-do list, create a priority list with around three to five key tasks. Focus on completing these tasks mindfully and effectively, rather than spreading yourself too thin. Digital Detox: Take regular breaks from the digital world. Set aside specific times during the day to disconnect from your devices and immerse yourself in the present moment, free from the distractions of technology. Gratitude Journaling: Before you end your day, take a moment to reflect on what you’re grateful for. Jot down a few things that brought you joy or peace during the day. This practice can shift your focus from the negative to the positive aspects of your life, fostering a sense of contentment and fulfillment. Always remember that mindfulness is not about achieving a perfect state of zen but about cultivating a deeper awareness and appreciation for the present moment. By integrating these simple practices into your daily life, you’ll gradually find yourself more attuned to what truly matters, leading to a more meaningful and fulfilling existence. Oh, and one more thing: Don’t forget the power of self-care! In the hustle and bustle of daily life, you’ll often tend to neglect your own well-being… but you cannot pour from an empty cup. So, take the time to nurture yourself, whether through exercise, meditation, or indulging in a good book. When you prioritize your own well-being, you’ll find yourself more equipped to handle life's demands with a clear and focused mind. Remember: Every day is a new opportunity to realign yourself with what truly matters in life. So, take a deep breath, smile, and go conquer your day with mindfulness as your trusted companion. Have a great day!