Practice Mindfulness During Remote Meetings

 
Tue 23 March 2021

Practice Mindfulness During Remote Meetings

Remote work is taking its toll in the form of chronic stress and burnout. Cultivating mindfulness can help you maintain your energy, reduce your stress levels, and reconnect with your teammates. It’s all about establishing your virtual presence — and being present — even if you're remote. First, eliminate distractions and truly focus on the people you’re speaking to in the moment. This means taking a minute to reflect on your physical and emotional state when entering a meeting: Are you thinking about the conversation you just had, looking ahead to your next meeting, or itching to look at your inbox? Others will notice if your attention is elsewhere — even through a Zoom. Then, foster connection and community by practicing deep listening and paying close attention to what people are saying — and how they're saying it. Remote work doesn’t have to be a barrier to your capacity to deliver leadership presence, empathize and connect with colleagues, and build strong workplace communities.
This tip is adapted from “Staying Mindful When You’re Working Remotely,” by Alyson Meister and Amanda Sinclair