“Focus is the art of knowing what to ignore.”
James Clear
So often we get caught up in the events and rumors of politics and world news. The headlines seek out events that are often fear-inducing, frustrating, but most importantly, out of our control. It’s one thing to stay informed, but it’s another thing to let the problems of this world completely consume you. When you get overly-engaged in the news and headlines, you slowly become controlled by other people’s ideologies as you begin to no longer slow down, assess your own life, and make judgments for yourself.
There is a timeless principle that exists in which what we focus on expands within our life. If we keep focus on golfing, we will become better golfers. If we keep focus on personal finance, we get better at managing our money. If we keep focus on our community, we become more invested in the people around us. This principle applies to everything you do, for better or for worse, so we must become more careful in placing our focus.
First we must recognize: when you focus on problems, you will only begin to see more of them. When you further focus on problems you can’t control, you will cripple your ability to take action. You will slowly become overwhelmed by the world’s problems as they intensify through your continued focus, and life will only seem to become more difficult for you. This is the essence of a downward spiral. One example is the victim mentality, which forms as self-pity and helplessness take hold of your mind by continuing to give those thoughts your energy.
On the flip side, when you focus on opportunities and things you appreciate, you will be able to identify more of them. The more you seize opportunity and give good things praise, the more you will accumulate small victories, joy, and a newfound faith in humanity. This will generate positive momentum in your life, making you into a more capable, competent, and connected person. This is how you bring more empowerment back into your own life. This is how you become the hero of your own story.
Where change begins
We all want to see the world change for the better, but we don’t recognize enough that change must begin with each of us, individually. Change begins when you start looking closer to home: yourself, your household, your friends and family, your neighborhood, and your local community.
I. If you want to create change, start with the easiest thing you can control – your actions. The most immediate way to make a positive impact is taking the responsibility & initiative upon yourself. The problems (and opportunities) that grip you most are your calls to adventure!
II. If you want to impact your community, it doesn’t need to happen overnight. If you want to clean up the Earth, start by cleaning up your street. If you want to help battle world hunger, organize a food drive with your favorite local group (it could be your neighbors!) If you want to positively impact your organization, start with befriending a co-worker you don’t typically chat with. If you want to have a better relationship with your parents, start by calling them!
III. Embrace change. Expecting that change will inevitably occur and embracing it sooner will make the transition easier. Don’t dwell on how things used to be or “ought to be”. Be flexible, adapt quickly, and believe the change can lead to something better!
It doesn’t take much, just an attitude that recognizes you can make the difference.
Wyatt Simkins