Thriving Through the Noise
There are so many impediments to our performance and success nowadays. Starting, persisting or completing a task may offer a variety of challenges which can lead us to the pursuit of welcomed distractions.
We live in a world whirling faster and faster and one filled with persistent distractions. There are instant diversions all around. All you have to do is wake up, open your eyes and pick one. There are two thousand of your closest friends just waiting to connect with you on social media, social media influencers ready to inform you on how to look, act and live, the myriad of bright lights, fun games and catchy tunes to keep you tuned in and locked on; and don’t forget the strain of the daily news reports that highlight all that is wrong with our world. Grab the next shining object whirring past you and hang on!
No time to observe organize, plan and persist. React now pay later!
Thriving through each challenge requires a goal, planful preparation, resolve (this must be finished), persistent focus and effort and an understanding of the reward at the end of the journey. It is ultra-important to know why your chosen project is important to you, what is the value for you? When you decide something is worth doing or is mandated to be done, be sure to write it down and share the value and your commitment to it with someone you trust. Equally important is knowing when you will focus on the project. What time of the day are you likely to put forth your best effort? How long can you usually sustain focus and your best effort? What distractions do you need to be on the lookout for? There are likely a number of them (tired of sitting, focusing, thinking, problem solving, hungry, feeling antsy, craving a look at your cell phone, wondering how Aunt Lucy is doing etc.). It’s important to be aware of your distractions and to have short breaks (10-15min) built into your schedule when they occur. Work in blocks of times that fit your style and focus. You must have a plan for hitting the wall or risk of abandoning your effort. What and who will hold you accountable when you struggle to move forward or stop? What support (something that can be said or done) will help you to get back into the fray. We tend to have more enthusiasm and energy when we realize the value of our persistence. Be sure to identify the reward earned from your effort. It may be something tangible like a promotion, or a rewarding smile from your partner, or a boost to your self-esteem after conquering that mountain you’ve just climbed.
Remember, each of us is unique. We work, think and feel in a way that is distinct to us.
It’s essential to operate from an awareness of what you need and how you work to be your best.