Life seems to have become so focused on how much more you can take on. How much more you can do. How much more you can acquire.
But all too often, we mistake complexity for progress.
Whereas complexity merely spreads us thin, dilutes our efforts, and leaves us nowhere farther than before (just distributed amongst more places), progress is where we find ourselves moving forward in general, toward some predefined goal.
If all we do is take on more and more projects, tasks, responsibilities, ad infinitum, then all we’ll do is face an increasingly insurmountable set of obstacles in our life. We’ll be doing more, but accomplishing less.
Businesses face this problem as much as people do in their own personal lives. Families, societies, organizations, and individuals alike must ask themselves if they’re trying to do too much.
But how do you discern distractions? How do you know if adding something to your “agenda” is helping you progress along your path, or merely taking your eyes off your goal.
I’ve found that dilemma is often overcome by one specific thing… clarity of purpose. The clearer your purpose, the more stark each opportunity will be in whether it propels you toward your destination, or inhibits your progress by diluting your efforts.
If you truly want to be remarkable in something, then learn to focus your energies. Figure out what you want to do, or who you want to become, and then measure all things against that.
As you focus your life, as you simplify, you’ll find that not only can you move faster, but you’ll enjoy the ride so much more.
Rusty
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{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
I like this one. You are remarkable!
I really appreciate the thoughts you share with us out here in cyberspace. Thank you for taking the time to offer sincere thoughts that have more than once provided a springboard to inspiration for me.
Best,
Rob
Rusty,
Just what I needed! I have had this subject on my mind much and it is refreshing to hear it put in such perfect words. I loved the “clarity of purpose” and I am praying to have that in my mind more.
Amy
Rusty sounds to me like one confused speed racer on downers! Is it big or is it small .. is it worth it or is it a waste… blahhh boring..
Well gosh… that wasn’t very nice. While you’re at it, why don’t you give me a paper cut and pour lemon juice on it (to quote one of my favorite movies… Princess Bride).
Thanks for posting, I very much enjoyed reading your newest post. I think you should post more often, you clearly have natural ability for blogging!