Take the Test, are you a Leader?

There are all sorts of articles and books on becoming a Mindful Leader and reasons it is spreading to many businesses including healthcare, government, education, technology, consumer goods, retail and more.  The benefits are endless. As Arianna Huffington states, mindfulness is an essential part of being more effective and satisfied in work and in life. So what does it mean to be a Mindful leader?  Ask yourself the following questions and based on your answers, decide if you want to learn more about being Mindful.  Mindfulness is not about doing but about being.

1. Do you take the time to listen to what others have to say? Do you really hear them or are you quick to interject your own thoughts before they are finished?
2. Can you be in a meeting and concentrate on what is being discussed or is your mind scattered and thinking about your previous meeting or what is to come later in the day?
3. Do you react and jump to conclusions or are you calm and in control of difficult situations?
4. Are you clear on your path and have the ability to inspire and motivate others?
5. Are you a positive pillar in your office and a person others turn to?
6. Is there a sense of trust and respect for each other? Are you able to accept responsibility for actions without placing blame on others?
7. Do you care about your employees well-being and lives outside of what they can do for you in the office?
8. Do you have self-compassion and the courage to lead and mentor others?

Mindfulness is at the core of who you are. It is about being present in the moment.  It is a simple practice in it truest sense but can be difficult as it requires you to quiet the chatter in your mind and pause. Similar to a fitness program, mindfulness is referred to as exercise for the mind and becomes easier the more you do it. 

As John Kabat-Zinn explains research has shown that a practice in mindfulness can change the way our brain is wired, functions and structured.  With mindfulness, increased plasticity and chromosome changes occur affecting our well being and satisfaction. Mindfulness is a great foundation for a successful career, business and life. To learn more about leading and having others follow, contact Upstream Solutions.

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