In a world where work often demands our attention far beyond office hours, being fully present at the dinner table with our family can feel like a challenge. The pull of unfinished tasks, the constant buzz of notifications, and the lingering thoughts about tomorrow’s responsibilities can easily intrude on what should be sacred family time.
Yet, the choice to be present with your loved ones—truly present—can be one of the most empowering decisions you make. After all, your family is the most important part of your life, and they deserve your full attention.
Choosing to be present at the dinner table is more than just turning off your phone; it’s about consciously deciding to prioritise what matters most. It’s about recognising that, at that moment, nothing is more important than the people sitting across from you. This decision isn’t always easy, especially when work demands your attention, but it is a choice that aligns with your deepest values.
When you make the empowered choice to be present, you are affirming that your family deserves your best self—not the distracted version of you, but the fully engaged, attentive you.
One of the biggest barriers to being fully present with your family is guilt—the guilt of not finishing that last task, not responding to an email immediately, or not meeting every demand that work throws your way. But here’s the truth: it’s okay to set boundaries. It’s okay to say that this time with your family is non-negotiable.
Letting go of guilt doesn’t mean neglecting your responsibilities; it means recognising that your presence with your family is a responsibility in itself. If something absolutely must be done, schedule it for later—after the kids are in bed or after dinner. Your work will wait, but your family time won’t. The moments at the dinner table are irreplaceable, and the memories you create there are far more valuable than any work task.
The Gift of Presence
I was once approached by a lady who shared a story that really hit me. Her daughter had told her she was tired of being a “technology orphan” because every night, when her mum came home, she was glued to her phone. What a profound and heartbreaking statement. That little girl gave her mother a gift—a wake-up call to be more present.
Imagine being told something similar by your own child. How would you feel? What changes would you make?
This story is a reminder that our children and loved ones crave our attention. They notice when we’re distracted, and they feel the distance even when we’re physically close. Choosing to be fully present is not just about what we do for ourselves—it’s about the love and connection we offer to those who matter most.
To make the empowered choice to be present at the dinner table, start by setting a clear boundary at the end of your workday. Decide when work stops and family time begins. Create a routine that helps you transition out of work mode—whether it’s a walk, a few deep breaths, or simply changing out of your work clothes.
Next, disconnect from technology. Put your phone on silent, turn off notifications, and leave your devices in another room if possible. This simple act of disconnecting allows you to reconnect with your family.
Finally, engage in meaningful conversation. Ask open-ended questions, share your experiences, and most importantly, listen. These moments of connection are what truly matter.
Choosing to be present at the dinner table is an empowered choice that reflects your commitment to your family. It’s about letting go of the guilt that often comes with setting boundaries and recognising that your family deserves your full attention.
Remember, work can and will wait, but the time you spend with your loved ones can’t.