Distractions have you frazzled? Strategies to help you focus.

In the last few months I have been acutely aware of distractions. I must admit there have always been distractions around me but more than ever, experiences over the last few months have given me food for thought. When you set a goal for yourself, whether it be for the day or the year, pay attention to what happens afterwards! Suddenly there are people or projects that pop up keeping a lot of noise and seeming very important. These are distractions! Whenever you pause to address said people or projects, your focus is diverted. In breaking your focus you find yourself frustrated and frazzled, wondering why you can’t achieve your purpose. Here are some strategies to help with distractions. I am going to use the term “fire” for distractions because that is how they often feel to me. Something that must be dealt with immediately and that becomes all consuming. When the fire starts raging around you, ask yourself: (1) Is it so important that I have to drop everything and deal with it? Be honest here and realize some fires don’t even need your response; they will burn themselves out. Some distractions will pause your purpose. (2) If you pause to address the fire and realize it won’t stop burning, stop addressing it! Remember, some distractions are designed to keep you in a permanent place of pause! A never-ending loop of chaos. If you made the mistake of pausing, acknowledge that you did so and get back to your goal. Refocus!! (3) Establish achievable targets that will help you attain your ultimate goal. It’s important to celebrate the little wins that bring you closer to said goal. (4) Finally, use the mantra of Nehemiah – and stay firm in your priorities (study Nehemiah 6 for context). When a distraction appears (and it doesn’t matter if it comes in the package of someone or something you love), say to yourself, ” I am doing a great work so I cannot come down”. In other words- I’ve got a goal to achieve and I need to remained focused. Practice the steps above. I’m sure it will make for a more focused, less frustrated and frazzled you!

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