While it has earned significant attention from the media in recent years, many of us probably haven’t realized just how important the concept of mindfulness has become in the business world. Centered around a sustained and focused attitude towards the present, the practice of mindfulness can manifest itself in a variety of ways. Indeed, while some individuals enjoy meditating several times per week, other people simply enjoying taking a bit of time each day to feel “present” and in the moment. Whichever form of mindfulness works best for you, here are just three ways that the practice can make you a better leader in 2019.

Becoming More Empathetic

For many business leaders, mindfulness is a unique tool for achieving a better understanding of others. Because mindfulness gives us time to reflect on our interactions with those around us, it can enable us to develop a more nuanced form of empathy towards other people. To be a great leader, communication is key, and if we can truly understand the needs of our employees and clients, we’ll become better and more effective communicators and leaders. That can make a big difference when it comes to creating win-win solutions to big problems.

Cultivating Selflessness

In a business environment, it’s easy to get wrapped up in our own viewpoints, concerns, and problems. This is especially true when stress levels are running high or we’re experiencing burnout. By regularly practicing mindfulness, however, we’ll remind ourselves that the world doesn’t revolve around us. With a greater sense of humility and selflessness, we’ll be better able to help others achieve their goals. For a true leader, life doesn’t get much better than that.

Being Present

Undoubtedly, one of the greatest aspects of a mindful attitude lies in the ability to deal with life in the moment. As many top business leaders will tell you, it’s easy to become excessively focused on the future when a lot is riding on your decisions. Unfortunately, this kind of anxiety can be debilitating and counterproductive. Considering past mistakes or contemplating future outcomes may have their place in any career, it is true, but if we want to be effective leaders, we have to take each day as it comes. Today’s problems are enough to worry about!

For these reasons, a life dedicated to mindful contemplation can be just the thing that today’s leaders need to reach new levels of personal and professional satisfaction. Whether we’re focused on the needs of our community or simply taking the time to appreciate the simple joys of the present moment, mindfulness can truly allow us to become the best version of ourselves.