The Gift of Your Presence

Barbara Tudda is a singer, photographer, jewelry designer, creator, artist, writer, and senior care expert. She is a lover of nature, music, animals and people who laugh easily and are kind and true. She is also the featured writer in our November 2025 issue of En Root, so check out her full article here, and read below to learn more about the author!

This month's theme is all about the gift of your presence. Tell us how this theme has played a role in your personal or professional life.

In caregiving, being present means giving your full attention to the person for whom you are providing care. It is the first step in connecting with a person and building a caring relationship. Many who are called to this kind of work do this naturally. For others, it is a skill that can be learned and developed. The first step is in becoming aware of the difference between being present and not just being in someone’s presence.

The practice of living life fully present is a lifetime journey. One can have the realization of being present, and in the next moment find themselves thinking about the past or future and not be present anymore. In my understanding, it is like a muscle that needs to be exercised to be relied on. A practice that can become a habit so that in times of great stress and crisis, it is an automatic response. Peace, awareness, presence and then response.

At OutGrowth, we believe in designing the space and time to reimagine the path forward. How do you think that remaining present can help us to see our present and future differently?

When I am fully present, I catch what I call "Glimmers". Moments that I later see were opportunities to connect that I would have missed otherwise. These glimmers often feel insignificant in real time, but they become the connections that shape my path forward. Even if I don’t yet know where a particular connection will lead, I trust that its value will unfold. By remaining present, we not only see our lives more clearly, but we also give space for futures to emerge in ways we couldn’t have planned.

What is one hard lesson you learned in this past year that contributed to your growth?

I have learned that I need to make my health and well being a priority. Being aware of other people's needs and wanting to be there for them, makes me a great caregiver. However, I can't help anyone if I am not helping myself. Stepping away from corporate healthcare to focus on my family, my health and my creative abilities is a step in the right direction.

What is one competency or skill you hope to develop in 2025 and beyond?

Self promotion. Transitioning from a corporate leadership position in senior care to a self employed artist and musician, I want to be more comfortable seeking out opportunities to promote myself and my art, so I can connect with those who will find joy with what I have to share.

What inspires you?

I am inspired by nature, music and art. I am inspired by people I meet who make me smile and who make me think. I am also inspired with travel. Going to new places, meeting new people of diverse backgrounds.

At OutGrowth, we believe in preparing the next generation of leaders. What is one resource you'd recommend to those looking to carve out the time for growth in the next year?

The Power of Now, by Eckhart Tolle. Also, The Tao of Pooh, by Benjamin Hoff.

What's next? What are you excited about in the coming year?

I am excited to do more traveling to other countries. I am also excited to further develop my jewelry design business, expanding beyond a few local makers markets to being able to sell online. At the same time, I am working on new pieces for my blog, The Gift of Your Presence and will start to look for opportunities to publish my stories.