We live in a world full of distractions. Phones buzz, emails pile up, and meetings blend into one another. It’s easy to fall into the trap of being physically present but mentally absent—especially in leadership roles where time is short and demands are high. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that real leadership isn’t about being busy. It’s about being present.

Leading with presence doesn’t mean you have to be perfect or always have the answers. It means you show up—fully engaged, fully attentive, and fully invested in the people and moments in front of you. And in today’s fast-moving world, that kind of leadership matters more than ever.

Presence Builds Trust

One of the most important jobs of a leader is to build trust. And trust isn’t built in grand gestures—it’s built in the small moments. It happens when your team feels heard. When they know you’re listening—not just nodding while checking your phone.

When I first stepped into leadership, I thought being a strong leader meant having all the answers. I’ve since learned that being present is far more valuable. When you take the time to sit with someone, look them in the eye, and give them your full attention, it sends a powerful message: I see you. I value you. I’m here for this.

That simple shift creates a ripple effect. People open up. They take ownership. They feel safe bringing up issues before they become problems. All of that starts with presence.

Distraction Is the Enemy of Connection

We all multitask. It’s become a badge of honor in some workplaces. But the truth is, multitasking often leads to shallow thinking and weaker relationships. You can’t connect with someone—really connect—if you’re half-listening or planning your next move while they’re speaking.

I’ve caught myself doing it. Sitting in a meeting, checking emails, mentally preparing for the next task. But the more I’ve practiced presence, the more I’ve seen the difference it makes. When I slow down and truly focus on the person in front of me, the conversation is more meaningful, the decisions are better, and the outcomes are stronger.

Being present doesn’t require more time. It just requires more intention.

Why Presence Matters in Uncertain Times

The last few years have brought a lot of uncertainty—professionally, economically, and personally. And when people are navigating change or feeling unsure, what they need most from their leaders isn’t constant reassurance. It’s presence.

They need to know you’re not checked out. That you’re engaged. That you’re still in the trenches with them.

During uncertain times at JSL Construction, I’ve made it a point to increase face-to-face check-ins, even when things feel chaotic. I try to lead meetings without distractions, ask real questions, and follow up with care. That consistency creates calm. It helps people feel anchored, even when everything around them is shifting.

Presence Is a Skill—Not a Trait

Some people think presence is something you’re born with. But I believe it’s a skill—one you can build through practice. Like any other leadership ability, it takes awareness and discipline.

For me, building presence started with two things: reducing distractions and increasing intention. I set specific times to check email instead of constantly refreshing it. I silence notifications during meetings. I remind myself before every interaction to listen first, speak second.

These are small changes, but they’ve made a big difference in how I lead and connect.

Showing Up for Your Team and Yourself

Being present doesn’t just benefit your team—it benefits you, too. When you’re fully engaged, you make better decisions, build deeper relationships, and feel more fulfilled in your work.

It also helps reduce stress. When you focus on one thing at a time instead of juggling a dozen thoughts, you feel more in control. You’re less likely to feel overwhelmed, and more likely to leave each day knowing you made a real impact.

Presence also helps you stay aligned with your values. When you’re rushing or distracted, it’s easy to slip into reactive behavior. But when you’re grounded and paying attention, you respond with purpose.

Presence in Everyday Leadership

You don’t have to clear your calendar to lead with presence. You just have to be mindful of how you show up in the moments that matter.

That might look like:

• Pausing before responding to a tough question
  
• Giving your full attention during a one-on-one conversation
  
• Putting your phone away during a team meeting
  
• Being honest when you don’t know the answer
  
• Taking a breath before reacting to bad news
  

These are simple practices, but they send a powerful message. They show your team—and yourself—that leadership isn’t about doing more. It’s about being more present.

Final Thoughts

In a distracted world, presence is a rare and powerful thing. It doesn’t take more hours in the day or superhuman focus. It just takes a commitment to showing up, tuning in, and giving your best attention to the people and tasks that matter most.

Leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about being there—fully, honestly, and consistently. When you lead with presence, you create connection, inspire trust, and make a lasting impact.

So slow down. Take a breath. And be here for it. Your team—and your future self—will thank you for it.