In a recent article for Forbes, Juliet Trnka, CEO of Direct Knowing, discusses how the current emphasis on productivity in the business world may actually be hindering efficiency. Trnka, who is a coach, poet, author, and soul activist, advocates for a presence-based approach to business, where leaders focus on being truly present in the moment rather than just ticking off tasks from a to-do list.
Trnka shares her own experience of building her business without feeling overwhelmed, stating that she was not seeking to expand her team due to feeling burdened by tasks, but rather because she was ready to grow. She believes that the constant focus on productivity can lead to burnout and overwhelm, as it prioritizes quantity over quality.
The core issue, according to Trnka, is the focus on output within a specific timeframe, rather than on one’s availability and openness to the present moment. By prioritizing growth in availability and openness, individuals can become more resilient, adaptable, and open to new opportunities. Trnka suggests that by focusing on what makes us feel alive, rather than just following a to-do list, we can achieve better outcomes with less effort.
Trnka offers three practices that have helped increase efficiency and quality within her own team. These practices include working skillfully with desire, allowing preferences to dictate work schedules and tasks, integrating presence-based practices as a team, and fostering genuine connection and caring among team members. She believes that a genuine sense of caring for one another and the organization can lead to high levels of self-leadership and intrinsic motivation within a team.
In conclusion, Trnka suggests that business leaders should reconsider the traditional focus on productivity and shift towards a presence-based approach. By prioritizing presence, genuine connection, and caring within the team, businesses can create a more efficient and effective work environment. Trnka believes that by reimagining what business is capable of and defining work as “love made visible,” leaders can create more fulfilling and sustainable businesses that prioritize the well-being of their team members.
