What are you focusing on?

Focus is the ability to devote our full attention and concentration to a person or process. Focus lends clarity and direction to our day to day activities. It lets us maximise our progress and productivity by directing our energies toward one priority at a time. By honing our focus we can reach new levels of insight, knowledge and quality.

Internationally acclaimed author Lyanla Vanzant stresses that there is power in focus. “By focus I mean clear, intentional concentration on a specific tangible or intangible circumstance or situation. Focus can and will bring the energy of the mind, heart and soul into alignment. Focused alignment is powerful.

However, it is imperative to be clear about what you are focused on, why you are focusing on it and, the energy behind your focus. When we are not clear about the energy and intention of the things we focus on, we will find it impossible to create new energy or experiences. Instead, we will create or re-create what we do not want rather than what we actually desire,” she advises.

In his Ted Talk, American success analyst Richard St. John reveals the secrets he learned from the world’s greatest about focus. Legendary music producer Quincy Jones revealed that he cannot even drive a car because he devoted his life to music, while bestselling author Stephen King says: ‘If you want to be a writer, there should be no phone in your writing room, no TV, no video games, draw the curtains, eliminate every possible distraction.”

So how can we improve our focus? Sister Jusu of the Brahma Kumaris centre in Kamwokya recommends meditation. “One of the biggest distractions is our state of emotions. When we are worried or anxious, we can barely focus on anything. Meditating helps balance our emotions and consequently helps us focus,” she explains.

Another way to improve focus is through reading. Make it a habit to read something for about five or 10 minutes daily and increase with time until you are able to achieve your desired concentration level.