The Art of Showing Up When It Matters

In an age of constant connectivity and endless demands for our attention, there's a growing misconception that being present everywhere is the key to success. We're expected to attend every meeting, respond to every message instantly, and maintain a presence across multiple platforms simultaneously.

But what if the most impactful people aren't those who show up everywhere, but those who show up fully when it truly matters?

Quantity vs. Quality of Presence

There's a fundamental difference between being physically present and being truly present. One is about occupying space; the other is about bringing your full self—your attention, energy, and intention—to a moment or interaction.

Consider two scenarios:

In the first, a leader attends every meeting, responds to every email within minutes, and is constantly available. But in meetings, they're distracted, checking their phone, and only half-listening. Their responses to emails are cursory and generic. Their availability is wide but shallow.

In the second, a leader is selective about where they direct their attention. They attend fewer meetings but come prepared and fully engaged. They might take longer to respond to messages, but when they do, their responses are thoughtful and valuable. They're not always available, but when they are, they're fully present.

Which leader makes a greater impact? Which creates more value? Which would you rather work with or learn from?

The Power of Full Presence

When you show up fully—with your complete attention, energy, and intention—several powerful things happen:

• You notice details and opportunities that others miss
• You make others feel valued and heard
• You bring your best thinking and creativity to the situation
• You make more meaningful connections
• You create memorable experiences and impressions

This kind of presence can't be faked or phoned in. It requires a deliberate choice to be where you are, fully, rather than spreading your attention thin across multiple demands.

Strategies for Impactful Presence

1. Be selective about your commitments

Say yes to what truly matters and aligns with your values and goals. Say no to the rest. Remember that every yes is implicitly a no to something else.

2. Practice single-tasking

When you're in a conversation, be in that conversation. When you're in a meeting, be in that meeting. Close other tabs, put away your phone, and give your full attention to what's in front of you.

3. Prepare intentionally

Before important interactions, take a moment to set your intention. What do you want to contribute? How do you want others to feel after engaging with you?

4. Create boundaries around your availability

Constant availability leads to fragmented attention. Designate specific times for deep work, for responding to messages, and for being available to others.

5. Practice mindfulness

Regular mindfulness practice strengthens your ability to be present and to notice when your attention has wandered.

The LATE Philosophy of Presence

At LATE, we believe that your impact isn't measured by how many places you show up, but by the quality of your presence when you do. We believe in being deliberate about where you invest your attention and energy, and in showing up fully for what truly matters.

This approach might mean you're not everywhere all the time. It might mean you're not the first to respond or the most visible in every context. But when you do show up, people notice. Your presence has weight. Your contributions have impact.

And ultimately, isn't that what truly matters?