The power of being 100% present

The Most Precious Gift in a Distracted World

In our digital age, characterized by multitasking and constant notifications, full and sustained attention has become a scarce and therefore incredibly valuable resource.

Offering another person our full presence, our undivided attention, is perhaps one of the most generous and meaningful gifts we can give.

Being present is not simply being physically in the same place; It’s an internal state of complete attunement to the moment and to the person in front of us.

When we are truly present, we create a space where the other person feels seen, heard, and valued on a very deep level.

What Does It Really Mean to Be Present?

Being 100 percent present goes beyond putting away your cell phone.

It involves quieting our own internal dialogue, that stream of thoughts about what we have to do next, how we will answer, or our own worries.

It means directing all our sensory and cognitive resources towards our interlocutor: listening not only to their words.

But also to their tone of voice; observing their facial expressions and body language; feel the emotional energy of the conversation.

It is an act of total surrender to the shared moment, a meditation on interaction.

This quality of attention is what allows empathy to flourish and connection to be authentically established.

The "Game of Presence." A Playful Training

To cultivate this skill, we can practice the "Presence Game."

It's an exercise for two people that, while it can be fun, has a very serious purpose.

Sit or stand across from your partner, look into each other's eyes, and commit to being fully present with one another for a few minutes.

The goal is to maintain that attentive connection.

The moment one of you senses that the other's attention has wandered (perhaps because of a subtle change in their gaze or energy), you give them a gentle touch on the shoulder.

This touch is not a reproach, but simply a signal.

The game can continue, trying to lengthen the periods of uninterrupted presence.

This exercise trains us to recognize both our own distractions and those of others, and helps us strengthen our ability to maintain full and sustained attention in our interactions, turning Presence is a conscious and cultivable skill.