The most effective leaders today have a presence about them - you’ve probably seen it yourself. They’re able to connect with people in an engaging way, whether they’re one-on-one or talking to a large audience.

Present leaders are grounded, calm under pressure, able to deal with stress, and ensure people feel heard. They’re aware of their thoughts and emotions and the impact they have on those around them, and themselves.

A study of 2,000 employees found that the ability to be present and centred was the most essential of all leadership traits.

The importance of self awareness as a determinant of leadership success was introduced into the mainstream in 1995 by Daniel Goleman, which focused on the emotions of leaders. Nowadays, present leaders also have an awareness of their thoughts, and how to manage them.