In this world of constant technological innovation, we often find ourselves distracted and pulled in multiple directions at once. While concentrating on a project we are interrupted by a text, call, or person insisting on our attention. Also, we often do ourselves a disservice by multitasking rather than determining the one thing to focus on, and making ONLY that our main priority.
As a result of these constant interruptions and distractions, we quite often find ourselves working harder and achieving less. We have strayed much from the 80/20 or Pareto principle. Let’s see what we can do about this.
The One Thing to Focus On that Brings Results
Now like anything else worthwhile in life, this will take a bit of time and effort to undo some less productive habits in order to instill a routine that is centered on a desirable end result. This is a process of self-discovery, self-directed thinking, and efficient action.
Because what we are currently thinking and doing is part of our habitual nature, this process is not easy to do. Not that it is complex or complicated in any way, but because of our very own resistance to change we make it harder than it needs to be. We must be willing to get out of our own way in order to progress and succeed.
The thing that will make this a bit easier and inspire us to take The Next Step is discovering the one thing to focus on. When we spend the time and effort to do this, we release the resistance and use that trapped emotional fuel to transport ourselves with much less effort and far more joy to our goals.
This one thing will be different for each of us. The only factor that is the same is that our one thing is based on our overall desire for happiness and harmonious living.
Let’s Get Started on Discovering the One Thing to Focus On
Whether we desire to completely overhaul and change things around in our lives or address a few personal or business issues, the steps are basically the same in this self-discovery process. We are creating a roadmap of success.
This does not mean we will not have the usual challenges and roadblocks that emerge in the pursuit of any worthwhile endeavor, but it does mean we will not deviate from our course as we will be inspired to continue. This type of concentration and attention is what is missing in any past endeavors that did not deliver the desired results.
The importance of concentrating on this one thing is presented beautifully by the author, Gary Keller.
“Success demands singleness of purpose.
You need to be doing fewer things for more effect instead of doing more things with side effects.
It is those who concentrate on but one thing at a time who advance in this world.
Passion for something leads to disproportionate time practicing or working at it. That time spent eventually translates to skill, and when skill improves, results improve. Better results generally lead to more enjoyment, and more passion, and more time is invested. It can be a virtuous cycle all the way to extraordinary results.
The ONE Thing shows up time and again in the lives of the successful people because it’s a fundamental truth.
More than anything else, expertise tracks with hours invested.
The pursuit of mastery bears gifts.
When people look back on their lives, it is the things they have not done that generate the greatest regret…People’s actions may be troublesome initially; it is their inactions that plague them most with long-term feelings of regret.
Make sure every day you do what matters most. When you know what matters most, everything makes sense. When you don’t know what matters most, anything makes sense.”
― Gary Keller — The One Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results
Discovering the one thing in our lives that is our driving force and fulfills our purpose is time very well spent. This may take a bit of effort but it will connect us with our authentic selves. We will be driven by our core values and each step we take will be both meaningful and fulfilling.
The One Thing To Focus On Eliminates All Regrets
When we stay focused on one thing, we have no time for regrets. We see things clearly and understand that all our power exists right now this very moment. Each choice and decision we make will be based on advancing our one thing.
This is when the journey becomes the prize. The end result will just be a way of keeping score, but who we are is expressed each moment in the “living” of our purpose here and now. How can we even entertain any idea of regret when we are focused in this way?
We see the past as mere preparation for this moment, and we are grateful for all that we have previously experienced as it readied us for this point in time. The future we look forward to with eagerness and embrace the great unknown. We learn to love rather than resist uncertainty.
Discovering our one thing then becomes a pathway to excellence and transformation in all areas of our lives. We realize that it is not what we get but what we give that matters the most. At this point, there is nowhere to go and nothing to get. We are able to relax and be at ease with ourselves.
This is the true meaning of happiness and harmony. We need to do nothing other than be ourselves. Our authenticity will lead the way. We have ignited the power of our Genius Self.
Sharing Our Uniqueness with the World
We are now inspired to share our unique gifts with the world so that we make a positive difference in the lives of others. Our marching orders will dictate our path and the methods we will employ. We can let go and allow our lives to unfold in beneficial ways.
All worry and concern about our individual needs dissipate as we are totally engrossed in carrying out our purpose and mission in life. By discovering our One Thing we have given our lives meaning and purpose. This is what makes each moment an exhilarating experience. We appreciate just being alive.
Our gratitude increases as we see the value of each moment of life. We no longer take people or circumstances for granted. When our vision transforms so that we perceive ourselves, others, and the world with a new set of eyes, we are inspired to excel in a world-class way.
At this point, ordinary is no longer acceptable. Each day is a new challenge to improve ourselves so that we can increase our overall efficiency and effectiveness. With this kind of mindset, we unleash a tremendous amount of energy and power in creating not only the life of our dreams but the Life of Our Destiny.
We are now in a position to give back by providing leadership to others.
Is it worth the time and effort to discover the one thing to focus on? Well, that is a decision we individually need to make. It will involve commitment and even breaking a few habits that do not serve us well.
As previously mentioned, it does require a bit of mental effort to break through our inertia of holding on to the old, in order to allow in the new. Let me assure you that it is all so worth the effort whatever it takes because you deserve to be re-acquainted with your Genius Self who misses you so very much.
In Peace & Love within the Light,
Joseph William
P.S. For those who desire to express their One Thing through Digital Marketing here is My #1 Recommendation.
This is a very thought-provoking piece, to encourage people to focus on the one thing that they identify for themselves. I agree that multitasking is not the way to produce top-quality results or experience something to the fullest. However, I personally have far too many interests to drop things just because they aren’t my main focus. I think it’s important to note where time invested produces the best results, then cultivate more of what brings success.
Thanks, Aly. I appreciate your comments. There is never any need to ignore any of your true interests. It is just that we all have that “One Thing” that defines our uniqueness and is the foundation around all of our other interests. It is the main generator of our emotional fuel and defines our true purpose. All the Best.
Hi William,
Thank you for such an inspiring article and video. Forgetting our purpose leads to being lost and not knowing what we are all about. It is always challenging for me when I am challenged to pursue my heartfelt desire. I always think changing where I am is the way to go. But what if that is my Purpose already?
Self-doubt then plagues me and I am never sure if I am at my purpose or should I keep searching.
You have challenged me to keep asking questions. Thank you for a provocative article.
Ntlhane
Thanks for your comments and insights Nthlhane. Much appreciated. When we experience uncertainty it is a gift in disguise as we are learning to let go and be in the moment. That is when we can “receive” information from our intuitive selves. Learning to embrace and then actually love the uncertainty prepares us for the “certainty” of the Genius within ourselves. All the Best.
Hey Jo, nice article for those who like to skip and hop to different programs and successful in none. I myself was guilty of this when I started working online but soon learned that it’s surely not the way to go, hoping all over gives you no time to focus on one thing that can really benefit you as well. as you said discover what you really love and have the mindset to face all challenges that comes with it regardless to what it is, this article can be a life lesson for some, thanks for sharing Jo.
Thanks Earl. I appreciate your thoughts on this. Discovering our One Thing certainly makes things simpler and easier. All the Best.
I believe that it is so important that we focus on ourselves because if it is to be then it is up to us, as the saying goes if it’s to be then it is up to me. We should also focus on what we love doing and zoom in on that because there are so many things that can distract us so let’s put things in perspective and go for the goal.
So very true Norman. I appreciate your thoughts very much. All the very Best.
Hi Joseph, Just had a quick read through. I listen to the audiobook of Gary Kellar the One Thing on Youtube probably about 2 weeks ago. It was a link in an email swipe I was given to use. I clicked it I see it was quite long 5 1/2 hours I think it was but could have been shorter. Anyhow just as I was about to click off something really clicked with me what was said about focusing on one task at a time, and I ended listening to the whole lot lol
Sounds great Alex. I read the book and found it very worthwhile. All the Best.