The Mindful Manager: How to Improve Business Outcomes through Self-Awareness and Emotional Intelligence

In today’s fast-paced business world, we’re all juggling deadlines, meetings, and emails from morning ’till night. But as a manager, if you don’t take a moment to prioritize your own (and your team’s) well-being, you’re risking burnout – and that’s not good for anyone. That’s where mindfulness comes in!

By practicing mindfulness, we can develop a stronger sense of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and focus. In fact, studies have shown that mindfulness can even help reduce stress! And when it comes to business success, those qualities are absolutely essential.

One of the reasons why mindfulness is so powerful is its ability to help us connect with our own emotions. By staying present in the moment and paying close attention to our thoughts and feelings (without judgement!), we can better understand how our actions and decisions impact those around us. As managers and leaders, that’s a superpower we definitely want in our toolkit.

But mindfulness isn’t just about grounding ourselves. It can also help us build better relationships with our teams. When we’re in tune with our own emotions, it’s easier to recognize and empathize with the feelings of others. And that’s a crucial step towards building trust, fostering positivity, and handling conflicts effectively.

So how can you bring mindfulness into your own management style? It’s simpler than you might think! Start by taking a few minutes each day to meditate – even just focusing on your breath can make a big difference. During meetings and interactions, give your team members your full attention and really listen to what they’re saying. And before making any big decisions, take a step back and reflect on your emotions and the potential impact on your team.

By embracing mindfulness, you’re setting yourself (and your team) up for success. So go ahead – take a deep breath, be present, and make some conscious choices. Your team (and your sanity) will thank you for it!

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About the author

My business journey began by what I call happenchance. After spending over 15 years in a business I grew up in, I decided to step away to complete my practicum for my master’s in Psychology. During this period of transition, I updated my LinkedIn profile status to reflect my new focus. In May 2016, I received a call that changed the course of my career. A small minority business owner reached out, seeking assistance with organizational and leadership development. This unexpected opportunity inspired me to combine my extensive experience in business with my newly acquired expertise in psychology.