Constricting versus Releasing: The Power Of Focus

New York Times bestselling author, journalist and psychologist, Daniel Goleman wrote an entire book on the subject, “Focus: The Hidden Driver of Excellence.” Goleman believes that “Leadership itself hinges on effectively capturing and directing the collective attention,” while mindlessness, is “the single biggest waster of attention in the workplace.”

Self-awareness and discipline are key characteristics of good, effective, empowered leaders. Knowing when to control and when to flow can be critical to one’s ability to maximize life’s opportunities. Being present, listening and breathing can give us the focus, clarity and confidence that can break records and shatter goals. On the other hand, in the case of Steve Jobs, who returned to Apple in 1997 and instructed his development team to focus on four products, focus lead way to greatness.

How is focus so important?

Companies like Google, Target and General Mills all use mindfulness and Yoga in their corporations because they understand the importance of slowing down and focusing. Mindfulness doesn’t mean rejecting profits, ignoring the business or refusing growth. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. In our mobile lifestyles where we are inundated with smart phones, instant messaging and constant updates, we are more apt to give only a portion of our focus to any single event at a time. That means something – maybe your business – will suffer.

I give you 10% of my focus and you get 10% of my creativity. Greatness is not built on 10% of something. Greatness is built on a commitment and dedication, foresight and attention. In other words: focus.