When people think of mindfulness, they generally think of being totally present and aware of the current moment. Mindfulness is all about separating thoughts, anxieties and stressors, and seeing a situation for what it really is in a particular moment. That can include being aware of your environment, such as its sights and sounds, and realizing what is causing your stress, worries and fears for the future.

As 2021 comes to a close, I cannot help but look for ways to end the year in the most empowering and productive yet conscious way possible. To accomplish this, I believe mindfulness is key. If there is something to which I credit my success, it is always striving for more. Life can be compared to a marathon. When you are close to the end (in this case, the end of the year), it’s not time to slow down, but to push harder and finish strong. However, it is not simply about working harder; it’s also about working smarter — in a state where things flow, rather than a state of perturbation and uneasiness.

Mindfulness In Business

In my endless quest for self-improvement, I connected with a corporate trainer for Fortune 500 companies. Her name is Margarita Pasos, and she has 25 years of experience training successful executives all over the world. I knew her teachings would help me finish my year on a high note. The following are two of the most impactful lessons I learned from Margarita, which can help you too in your quest for mindfulness and ultimately with your business:

1. Surround yourself with like-minded people. Margarita shared with me what the top-level executives she trained had in common: They are selective with their circle of influence. They ensure their circle is empowering and inspiring, so they are surrounded with good energy, which creates an environment of effective execution. 
   I agree our closest ones have the most impact on us. In my company, we always make sure our new hires are aligned with our values. I have personally witnessed how empathizing with others and defusing conflict opens the space to be more conscious and mindful. We are aware energy is contagious, and if we are committed to being in a mindful state, we must surround ourselves with those who already are. 
2. Focus on the “why” not the “how.” When setting goals that include a financial component, applying mindfulness by focusing on your intention is key. The “why” is always more inspiring than the “how.” Inspire yourself by thinking why you want to achieve a certain goal and by visualizing the outcome — rather than simply chasing after a list of to-dos.
   In addition, for entrepreneurs, mindfulness can help you build your business by helping you stay calm during stressful work situations, which will then allow you to make better decisions. Meditation and soothing music/audio are some of the best ways I remain calm in the middle of chaos.

Mindful Finance

People spend so much time on their phones today, often unaware of what directly impacts their lives. Because of this, they end up focusing on problems and situations that are either beyond their control or not worth their time. It’s no secret that the topic of finance, particularly money management, can be a major source of stress. That’s why the pairing of mindfulness with finance can be so powerful; in fact, it can be life-changing. Mindful finance is the awareness of your current financial state without judgement or stress.

There are different ways you can practice mindful finance in a way that helps you meet your goals and move closer to financial freedom. A common situation for which mindful finance can be particularly useful is at the end of the month when it’s time to pay your bills. Instead of making this something you focus on only once a month, preparing throughout the month will help you feel less stressed — and more present — when it comes time to pay your bills.

By seeing money as a third-party resource that is merely a tool to achieve your goals and the life you want for yourself, you will be engaging in mindful finance. Imagine what you will be able to achieve with this kind of mindset?

I am on a mission to encourage people everywhere to live in the present moment with money, while planning for the future and looking to the past for lessons and education you can leverage for future wins and productivity. That’s how I live my life every day, and it has turned money from a stressor into a positive entity that has opened so many doors for me. I challenge you to view it in the same way.

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