Novels and Meetings / Novel Meetings?

I recently discovered novelist Eliot Pattison and a series of mystery novels he authored which take place in Tibet. The books are both excellent page turners and thought provoking. (And currently infuriating, as a reminder of the Chinese invasion of Tibet). That aside, I was drawn to Pattison's description of Buddhist monks dealing with challenges and their focus on living in the present.

Originally, I found myself contemplating the importance of being present for my children, who are 5 and 7. Anyone with kids knows that it can be tough to stay focused in the midst of overburdened schedules and too many priorities.

The more I thought about it the more it seemed to me that the same principles should apply to work relationships. Great businesses are built by great teams--which require great communication and mutual respect. Picture a meeting with participants half focused, doodling, and sending email via BlackBerry's. If business is all about people than being present seems a good place to start.