Why You Can’t Focus Anymore (And It’s Not Your Fault)
Focus is essential for success, yet most of us struggle with it daily. Here's the truth: it's not entirely your fault. We live in the most distracted era in human history, and it's only getting worse. But here's the good news—you can reclaim your focus, and I'm going to show you how.
Think about it: focus is simply channeling your resources—time, energy, and money—into what moves you closer to your goals. Want to lose weight? Focus on eating right. Want to save money? Focus on making that transfer from your bank account to your investment account. Want to grow a company? Focus on the key habits that will move the needle forward.
But here's where it gets challenging. As technology and communication improve, it becomes easier for anyone and everyone to grab your attention. And here's the kicker: everyone who wants your attention can get it—if you let them.
On a personal level, people in our circle can text or DM us anytime. Before cell phones, getting ahold of someone required effort. Now? People fire off texts like "do you want to hang out?" or even your spouse asking "what do you want for dinner?" without a second thought. On a macro level, there's social media, endless videos, hot takes, and countless other distractions.
Another layer to this problem: anyone can express their opinion online and appear authoritative. With all these distractions competing for your attention, is it any wonder you feel scattered?
To be honest, I'd love for you to watch our videos all day and read my books. The bottom line? I want your attention too. I believe my intentions are pure and I aim to give you value, but not at the expense of your work or valuable time with your loved ones.
One of my favorite sayings is: "My disability is not my fault, but it is my responsibility." Let me reframe that for this discussion: The fact that you struggle to focus might not be your fault, but it is your responsibility to reclaim it.
Time and energy are the two most valuable aspects of focus. If you want to reclaim yours, you must guard your time and regulate your energy. Here are practical strategies to make that happen.
You don't need to be available to everyone all the time. It's okay if a text doesn't get a reply within five seconds. You don't have to live in your email or DMs all day. As Brendon Burchard says, the email inbox is a place for other people's priorities. Create dedicated time blocks where you're simply not accessible. Go for a walk. Block off chunks of time for single-task focus.
My friend Chris Stevenson color-codes his calendar so each task gets a different color. He wants every moment of his time to receive the attention and focus it deserves.
People constantly tell us how to live, what to like, and what to be outraged about. These are distractions designed to sap your focus. To avoid falling into this trap, clarify and embrace your values. Develop strong beliefs that help you filter information effectively. Just be careful that these beliefs are grounded in reality, not conspiracy theories or unrealistic ideas.
Understand what environment you need for success. On your phone, disable notifications. Put distraction apps like social media and games in a folder away from your most important apps.
Set boundaries and communicate them clearly. Train others not to expect an immediate text or call back. People will treat you the way you train them to treat you.
To become successful and achieve your goals, you must reclaim your focus. Here's the critical insight: focus isn't something someone can steal from you. It's something you voluntarily give away by not setting boundaries. The power to reclaim it lies entirely in your hands.
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