This week has been an interesting juxtaposition of differing attitudes about showing up. On the one hand, I have an amazing colleague who continues to show up in spite of moving into a new house, losing two people dear to him and having his new grandson visit. Granted, he has taken time to do what he needs to do – but his finger is on the work pulse and he has been intentional about showing up when he needs to.
On the other hand, I have several Purdue students, who in spite of doing great work, continue not to show up to class. This is in spite of personal warnings about the attendance policy and the impact to their grades. I have at least 3 students who will do A level work but who are in danger of failing, as they fail to show up.
And then there is me… who did NOT show up to an early morning networking event this morning so that I could catch up on client work and blogging and some other important longer term work. While I think I made the right decision (my clients will be much better served, I will be more focused all day and less harried) – I still have guilt about not showing up to this event.
I know that no matter how brilliant you are or how wonderful your work is, if you are not available you cannot contribute. Face it – just showing up matters. Showing up when you are tired. Showing up when you have other things you would rather do. Showing up when you have way too many other things to do.
I also am learning that WHAT you show up to matters. There are far too many demands on our time to say yes to them all. Prioritization is in order. Once you’ve set your priorities – then your focus is on showing up and doing good work. That can only happen if you are present (physically) and present (mentally).
