You’ve heard the adage, “There’s no time like the present,” meaning we should seize moments and act. I love that. And I also believe, “There’s no present like the time,” provided it’s freely given and fully shared. To help you do that, here are three distinct layers of presence you can offer and experience.

1. Physical Presence. During the holidays and throughout life, you get many invitations and requests for attendance. At the time, these may seem incidental. They’re certainly optional. And yet afterward, when these events are remembered and stories retold, you were either there or you weren’t. So, show up when it matters to you or to those you care about.

2. Presence of Mind. Wherever you are, be there. Ignore your cell phone or, better yet, turn it off. Instead of focusing on what you say your do, pay attention to others. Notice sounds, smells, and images, details to archive as memories.

3. Emotional Presence. The holidays can be full of joy. Yet they can also can intensify loneliness, hardship, or loss. On any occasion, just know that a wide range of feelings are likely present, and tune in with emotional sensitivity. Give yourself and others the space to feel what’s real, and be understood and accepted.

So, when you attend holiday gatherings or interact with people on a daily basis bring your physical presence, presence of mind, and emotional presence. When you lean in to moments of connection you’ll have more to give and more to live. Until next week, stay Off Balance On Purpose.