Ben Gioia is a two-time best-selling author and international speaker whose positioned million-dollar thought leaders, created a mindfulness video game, and inspires leadership that serves humanity. As president of Influence with a Heart his teachings are used by more than 20,000 people worldwide. He launched one of the biggest magazines on Earth and trains Global Business Leaders at Stanford. After a trip where he almost died in the mountains of South India (several times), Ben received a gift: the fire inside to serve. Now he partners with entrepreneurs, thought leaders, consultants, and coaches to bring their vision mission and impact to the world.

 

On his trip to India Ben came close to disaster several times, encountering forest fires, deadly snakes, mountain lions, and vehicles almost careening off cliff sides. Without any mindfulness or meditation practice, Ben found himself using an affirmation for the first time: I’m not going to die. This opened a door to some bigger perspectives and awareness about being present.

The first and foremost thing Ben does is focus on breathing—on all that stuff below the neck. When you focus on your breath you are in the current moment, you are present. Finding time throughout the day to be present instead of saving it up for the weekend is crucial to finding happiness and awareness in your day to day life.

Being present and loving yourself radiates outward—the best way to take care of others is to take of yourself first, so that energy is shared and you’re in a better space to be aware of the needs of others. Have empathy for yourself, don’t take everything so seriously, and let your heart lead your influence.

If you would like to know more about what Ben is doing you can find his work at InfluencewithaHeart.com where he invites you to schedule a talk to see how he can best serve you.