Be present

Me + my best man, Archie.

I had a plan this morning.

✔ Sit on the couch.
✔ Write out a proposal.
✔ Enjoy my coffee.

But Archie had other ideas.

He insisted on being in my lap.
(Which is funny, because he’s not a lap dog.)

At first, I was annoyed.
I have things to get done!

So I moved him.
He came back.

I moved him again.
But he wasn’t giving up.

It was clear I had a choice.
Keep resisting or pay attention to him for a few moments.

And it got me thinking.

How often do we get caught up in our to-do lists and forget to spend meaningful time with the people on our teams?

Sometimes your direct reports need your attention, even if it’s not on the agenda.

Those unexpected conversations can lead to deeper trust, new ideas, and stronger relationships.

So here’s your reminder to pause.

Be present.

And make time for the people (and dogs) who matter most.

It only takes a few minutes.