In today’s fast-paced environment, leaders often feel frenzied and frazzled as they try desperately to multi-task their way through overpacked schedules. Their lack of focus can lead to unnecessary errors and a disengaged workforce in dire need of attention. In this session, we explore how the traditionally Eastern practice of mindfulness can improve focus and attention, which in turn supports employee engagement and increases the ability to handle challenges. We’ll review neuroscience research that shows that while we are not naturally mindful, the essential state of mindfulness is something that can be cultivated and sustained, as demonstrated by observed changes in the brain. Come prepared to partake in interactive exercises to experience mindfulness, and to apply mindfulness to a workplace setting. No previous knowledge of mindfulness is required.
The traditionally Eastern practice of mindfulness is becoming more and more common in Western business settings. A number of Fortune 500 organizations such as General Mills, Apple, Prudential, eBay, Aetna, Target, Proctor & Gamble, Google, and even the U.S. Marines offer mindfulness programs, often as an integral part of leadership development programs. Articles on mindfulness are appearing in Forbes and the Harvard Business Review.
Janice Marturano, the founder of the Institute for Mindful Leadership, tells leaders that they cannot lead today without cultivating more capabilities of their minds, which directly results from practicing mindfulness. So what does it mean to be mindful, and what are the benefits to a leader of being mindful?
Michelle Somerday, Ph.D., is an Executive Coach and Leadership Development Consultant and the Founder of Neo-Strategic, LLC. She is educated as an engineer and scientist and began her career in academia, reflecting her innate belief in the inherent and diverse capabilities of each individual and a passion for helping people realize their strengths. She later transitioned to the corporate world and understands first-hand what is required to be successful both individually and as part of a team, and how to be an effective leader. She is an experienced speaker and lecturer who has taught at the graduate level, facilitates leadership skills trainings, and has given invited talks at international conferences.
Michelle has a Certificate in Leadership Coaching from Georgetown University and is recognized as a certified coach by the International Coach Federation (ICF). Michelle views mindfulness as the core of leadership coaching and development and has practiced mindfulness since 1999. Her writing on Leadership & Mindfulness has been featured in the Human Capital blog of the Association for Talent Development, and it is a recurring topic in her own blog. She holds a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Virginia.
Light snacks and refreshments will be provided.
Metro: Silver Line: There’s a shuttle bus that leaves McLean Metro at approximately 5:30 and 6:00 p.m. and arrives at Tysons International Plaza (1921 Gallows Rd) about 20 minutes later. We can coordinate rides back to the Metro after the meeting.
In addition, if you get off at the Tysons Corner Metro stop, you can walk through the mall to Route 7, cross the street, and walk to 1921 Gallows Rd (which is actually on Boone Blvd). Probably about a half-mile walk.
Although the address is Gallows Rd., the entrance to the building is actually on Boone Blvd. If you've just turned off of Rt. 7 onto Gallows Rd, with Olive Garden on your right, take the next left onto Boone Blvd., then turn right into the first driveway. 1921 is the building straight in front of you. Parking is over to the right, and it is free.
The building locks sometime after 6 p.m., so if you are not able to get in, call or text Claudia at 703.217.3517703.217.3517.