It happens all the time. You start a project with clarity, energy, and time. And then the interruptions begin. You don’t want to engage with anyone because you’re on a mission. You love your mission!

We’re all on a mission. Some from God, some galactic, and all special. How do we stay on course and be a worthy parent, co-worker, friend, sibling, spouse, lover, or child? How do we eliminate the physical distraction of other people wanting time with us? How do we balance this work, life, love thing?

You are not going to believe the answer. The answer is listening.

Yes, you stop in mid-mission, clear your mind, look at the person, breathe, and hear what they are saying for the sheer purpose of understanding them. In doing this you establish a sacred space with time to honor them.

Those moments of pure connection – when another feels accepted, heard, and validated – are not limited to magical Disney movies. We have the power to create this for that list of people above who interrupt us from our mission because their mission needs a boost. And on those days, at those times, you are their boost.

Hints: you don’t have to solve their problem (most people are equipped to do so,) pan for gold, or put on a shrink’s hat. Your purpose is only to be with them. Most of the time after they experience being listened to by you they will be on their way. And you, well, you’ll be back at mission control with a smile that wasn’t there before.