What is Presence

And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.
~ Marianne Williamson

Presence is, in the world of communication, a state of heightened awareness and attention in your moment-by-moment interactions with others, characterized by a sense of connection with the thoughts and feelings of those you hope to influence, motivate, and inspire.

The state of being in the moment is a choice and depends upon the decision to be present in what is going on in the moment—not yesterday or tomorrow, but now. It is a learnable skill set that involves an interconnection of body, mind, and spirit. It is the most natural, resilient, renewable inner state, available to all of us at every moment. Notice the connection in the words “presence” and “present”. To “have presence” requires “being present” in the here and the now.

Conscious breathing provides the bridge. First, choose to be present with yourself, then reach out and connect with your audience with your full self-expression. In that moment, communicate your focus, energy, physical ease, vocal strength, and spirit to them.

Presence is not just something you have; it is also something you give by turning your attention away from yourself and toward others. By acknowledging your audience, they will in turn “present” back to you. This is the dance that happens when we are present and connected with our audience—whether that is one person or many.

Walk on to the stage of everyday life with a vibrant presence and strong communication skills that project energy, clarity of intention, thought and confidence! Inspire, motivate, influence and connect with those you lead.