As the year draws to a close, I’ve been reflecting on one theme that continues to shape every corner of my life: presence.
Not the wrapped kind under a tree, but the kind that transforms relationships, strengthens teams, builds trust in business, and nourishes our families and friendships.
Presence is a form of generosity. It communicates: I’m here. I see you. You matter.
While the world moves at a relentless pace, presence helps us slow down enough to connect with intention. Research published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships shows that attentive presence improves empathy, reduces conflict, and increases the sense of belonging between people. In leadership studies, “attentive leadership” consistently ranks as a top driver of engagement and retention. The science is catching up to what wisdom traditions have said for centuries: the quality of our attention shapes the quality of our relationships.
This December, I experienced two moments that captured the power of presence.
The first came during a day of delivering Christmas gifts to our clients with our new Recruitment Operations Manager at 3Q. Instead of quick drop-offs, we shared coffees, caught up, and expressed heartfelt thanks for their partnership during the year. We made time. We connected. We also brought Hero chocolates to the hospital catering teams—the people who quietly feed our loved ones on Christmas Day and every other day, reminding us that food is medicine and care requires community. These small acts weren’t transactional. They were relational. They were presence in motion.
The second moment came through my work as a mentor. Each month I meet with SAMBO—the exceptional senior mentees from The Shona Project, aged 18 to 21. They update me on their goals, challenges, highs and lows, and intentions for the month ahead. Their courage and clarity fill me with hope. I ended our December call with a full cup. In a world carrying enormous suffering, their brightness reminded me that the light of presence is priceless.
This is what I wish for all of us as we close out the year:
Seek the light.
Share the light.
Be the light.
And to everyone who reads my Entrepreneur’s Journal and shares their light with the world, thank you. Your presence, your kindness, and your commitment to people-first leadership are gifts. May the year ahead bring moments of connection, clarity and courage in abundance. In 2025 I was again supported, encouraged & challenged by some incredible business women. You know who you are and you are a real gift to me all year round, not just a Christmas present.
