Blog Post #5 – Does being fully present strengthen our relationships?

Inquiry Question: What does it mean to “live in the moment,” and how can we actively focus on embracing the little things in life?

Research Step 3: Does being fully present strengthen our relationships?

present: existing or occurring now.

Most meaningful moments felt throughout the day are usually times where people are fully present. (1) Quite a few people multitask in daily encounters with others they communicate with on a regular basis. (1) You could be finishing your homework while talking to your friend or watching a movie while scrolling through your Instagram feed. (1) These are examples of things that you do day-to-day subconsciously. (1) Although, when you are spending time with a friend, try to be more mindful, and fully immerse yourself into whatever topic you are talking about, or the activity that you are doing together. (1) Especially when someone is sharing something important to them, try to give them your full attention, and you may have the opportunity to learn new things! (1)

Any strong relationship is built on communication, and by practicing mindfulness, we may significantly improve the quality of our conversation by fostering genuine engagement and active listening. (2) Sometimes when you are not comfortable with a person you are talking to, you might start to create a response in your mind while the person is still speaking. (2) This may be the result of a lack of interest in what your peer is talking about. (2) Although, by paying your full attention to whoever is speaking on whatever subject, you may find a spark between each other, and create a deep connection. (2) In addition, being present in a relationship allows one to pick up on subtle cues easier. (2) This can lead to a more empathetic connection, where you can understand your peer better, and get a better sense of their values. (2)

Another substantial component in being fully present is actively listening. (3) There is a common misconception that actively listening is to just hear what another person is talking about. (3) This is not true, as deeply listening goes beyond just hearing words, and to the level of understanding the context, intentions of the topic, and tuning into another’s emotions. (3) Active listening improves relationships by gaining trust, reducing misinterpretations, and increases emotional intelligence according to research. (3) Groups directed by emotionally intelligent leaders had 20% higher participation, according to a Harvard Business Review. (3) This is because these leaders emphasized presence and empathy in their communication. (3) One thing to remind yourself when focusing on being present, is to Trust the Process. (4) We must get rid of our need for control in everyday situations. (4) By trusting the process, we open the door to new experiences and possibilities that we might’ve missed. (4)

So… How can we be present?

“Being present is the only way to live a truly rich and full life.” — Jay Shetty

There are many ways to focus on the present moment. (5) One simple way to help in being more present is by using your five senses in order to make observations. (5) Touch, sight, hearing, smell, and taste can greatly improve one’s ability in becoming present. (5) Noticing different sounds, like birdsong, the rustle in the bushes, or music. (5) Savoring the taste of your favourite comfort food. (5) Petting an unbelievably soft dog or cat. (5) Relaxing under the warm showerhead with the warmth of the water falling onto your skin. (5) Using all five of your senses regularly, makes you better at observing the environment around you. (5) Another tip is to do activities you used to love as a child. (5) Performing these activities can drastically improve one’s mood and well-being. (5) Whether that be drawing portraits of you and a friend, acting out a short skit, or playing a game you loved as a child like hide and seek. (5) These activities can bring out the playful, childlike side of you that can spark happiness! (5) Lastly, think about the time you spend with friends and family. (5) Instead of scrolling through your phones, try something new by changing up the ordinary routine! (5) Maybe that could be singing karaoke, making a meal together, or playing a board game. (5) These small actions can strengthen relationships and increase dopamine levels. (5)

Next time you feel like being actively present, but are unsure of where to start, refer back to these helpful tips, and know that by fully immersing yourself in social connections is a big step forward in regards to personal growth!

I hope you picked up a few key points in this Inquiry Project!

–Vanessa Vukovic

Resources:

(1) Hill, D., PhD. (2021, October 19). Giving your full presence to another is one of the best gifts you can give. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/striving-thriving/202110/how-be-more-present-in-relationships?msockid=254492a80207625d391c81df03d46363

(2) Wright, M. (2025, April 24). Mindfulness and Relationships: How Being present Can Strengthen Connections — Holistic and Somatic therapy | Berkeley & Online. Holistic and Somatic Therapy | Berkeley & Online. https://www.lifebydesigntherapy.com/blog/mindfulness-and-relationships-how-being-present-can-strengthen-connections

(3) Tanon-Olsson, A. (2025, April 10). The Power of Presence: Strengthening Relationships with Emotional Intelligence. Six Seconds. https://www.6seconds.org/2025/04/09/the-power-of-presence-strengthening-relationships-with-emotional-intelligence/

(4) Esha. (2024, August 21). The Power of Presence: Why Being in the Present Moment is Essential for Your Well-Being – Get Mindful Now. Get Mindful Now. https://getmindfulnow.com/the-power-of-presence-why-being-in-the-present-moment-is-essential-for-your-well-being/

(5) Raypole, C. (2024, August 13). The beginner’s guide to being present. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/being-present#getting-started