New Year, New Outlook: The Power of FOCUS
Have you made your New Year's resolutions? I actually don't really "do" resolutions. But, I do engage in reflection. The New Year is not necessarily about anything new. I believe the year 2009 is about manifesting all of the things that you've been working on up to this point. Now is the time for fruit to bear, and things to happen. Yes, even in a tough and uncertain economy, I believe this year holds great things for you. But, what will it take to see those things come to pass? One word – FOCUS!
Focus refers to the center of your attention. To focus is to concentrate; to direct your energies toward a particular endeavor or purpose. By definition, to be focused requires you to be selective with your associations and organized with your time.
F.O.C.U.S. is an acronym. I challenge you to set your priorities for this year by focusing on the following five areas:
Financial – last year taught us about the dangers of financial irresponsibility. Accountability on Main Street is just as important as it is on Wall Street. Set realistic and smart financial objectives for this year.
Occupational – build your professional goals around your skills and strengths. Know your brand, and focus on leveraging your brand equity.
Connections – be cognizant of your associations; who you are connected to and how you are aligned with others. Remember to nurture key relationships, and take time for friends and family.
Understanding – remember the importance of understanding others. That will require you to listen more than you speak! In business, you must understand your corporate culture, your industry, your boss, and your clients.
Spiritual – the most important component of focus is internal. Start each day the right way by centering yourself, remaining optimistic, and reflecting on your blessings. Feed your spirit before you feed your blackberry!
If you want something you've never had, you must do something you've never done!
Now, I am NOT saying that 2009 should be about you "doing" more. Having a purpose-driven life is not about doing everything. It is about doing everything you're designed and called to do. There is a difference!
The real power of focus is that it keeps you in your lane. Remember, you cannot live your best life, and have a purpose-driven career, without focus. Having a strong sense of your purpose will propel you, and staying focused will protect you.
A focused life is a fulfilled life!
Focus refers to the center of your attention. To focus is to concentrate; to direct your energies toward a particular endeavor or purpose. By definition, to be focused requires you to be selective with your associations and organized with your time.
F.O.C.U.S. is an acronym. I challenge you to set your priorities for this year by focusing on the following five areas:
Financial – last year taught us about the dangers of financial irresponsibility. Accountability on Main Street is just as important as it is on Wall Street. Set realistic and smart financial objectives for this year.
Occupational – build your professional goals around your skills and strengths. Know your brand, and focus on leveraging your brand equity.
Connections – be cognizant of your associations; who you are connected to and how you are aligned with others. Remember to nurture key relationships, and take time for friends and family.
Understanding – remember the importance of understanding others. That will require you to listen more than you speak! In business, you must understand your corporate culture, your industry, your boss, and your clients.
Spiritual – the most important component of focus is internal. Start each day the right way by centering yourself, remaining optimistic, and reflecting on your blessings. Feed your spirit before you feed your blackberry!
If you want something you've never had, you must do something you've never done!
Now, I am NOT saying that 2009 should be about you "doing" more. Having a purpose-driven life is not about doing everything. It is about doing everything you're designed and called to do. There is a difference!
The real power of focus is that it keeps you in your lane. Remember, you cannot live your best life, and have a purpose-driven career, without focus. Having a strong sense of your purpose will propel you, and staying focused will protect you.
A focused life is a fulfilled life!
