- Focus on the right thing and stick it out

Do you struggle staying focused on a goal? Most of us do. There as so many choices, so many things that we can do.

I work with a lot of university students. They are smart, convinced that opportunities abound for them, and that they will ascend to great heights. I worry that too many of these students have chosen a path because it impresses their peers. That is a sure formula for disappointment. Too few have done the homework needed to really know themselves – to know their true talents, their strengths AND weaknesses and where they can be most happy. Student move on into their professions. Too many who initially had high hopes at one time become disappointed. A majority never find, or they forget, what is most meaningful to them. They lose confidence and often begin to move from one idea to another – to simply dream of a different future but never have the courage, confidence or staying power to pursue it.

Crowds of emotionally charged people go the gym the beginning of each new year. They want to lose a few pounds and to look great. Within a couple of weeks you begin to see gym memberships drop. Within a couple of months most of the new “wannabe physical fit” people are gone.

The key is to think things through. Research. Be smart about it. Patiently stay the course. Stop thinking you can’t change. You do – for good or bad – constantly. Decide rationally to stay the course.

The key is to do your homework, find your focus, and stick to it. Miracles begin to happen – but not as quick as you want. Record your progress in your journal – and look back occassionally. You will see that you do begin to change – and in a wonderful way. As you stay the course, you will become more capable and quietly confident. Will you fail at times? Absolutely. Oh well! We learn from the past, we focus on the future, and we fully live each day. There is no magic, just simple, enjoyable (if you look at it that way) persistence. It can happen.

Staying Focused