For many of us, January 1, 2020 was marked with celebratory thoughts and self-promises of fulfilling our New Year’s resolutions. Some resolutions centered around changing employers; implementing weight loss strategies; embracing new relationships; facilitating workshops; increasing the love of culinary arts; making the decision to resume educational pursuits at an older age; starting a family; decreasing debt; purchasing a vehicle; purchasing new furniture; releasing feelings of anger, bitterness, fear, and hatred; making the decision to be a more present parent.
However, two months later, our country slowly entered a pandemic and now six months later, we continue to find ourselves thrust in the middle of confusion, fear, and uncertainty. In like matter, we meet at the intersections of health disparities, racial injustices, voter suppression tactics, and potential debates about basic human rights.
Consequently, some of us have found ourselves nestled in the place of distractions. The on-line version of Merriam Webster defines distraction as, “something that distracts; an object that directs one’s attention away from something else”. (Distraction, 2020). For instance, during the past several weeks, I have found myself distracted by the tearing down and rebuilding of my living space. Oftentimes, when our primary living space or normal routine have been disrupted it can trigger feelings of stress and negative emotions. Likewise, those of us who made the transition from in-person worship service to livestream can sometimes find ourselves engaged in other activities while simultaneously listening to the service. In the same way, some parents are challenged with working or teleworking and supporting their children with virtual learning.
Unfortunately, allowing ourselves to become distracted can cause us to relinquish our goals and submit to defeat. On a personal note, the defining scripture for Vision Beyond Eyesight, LLC, is Romans 12:2 – “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God”. In other words, anytime I allow myself to be consumed by the things of this world (i.e., extended employment hours; increased television to learn the status of coronavirus), I allow distance between myself and God. Rather, as a believer, I am charged with the daily spiritual renewing of my mind by focusing on God’s word. As a human, I am flawed and must structure my day to allow time to spend with God.
With that said, you can pivot to start the process of learning how to manage distractions by using the following steps as a guide:
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Determine the space in your residence that will allow you the time to relax and engage in self-reflection.
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Reflect on the situations that have led you to being distracted. If possible, document the days and times when you are most and least distracted. This will give you an idea of the timeframe you have to think and act on your goals.
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Sometimes people can become unwilling participants in destroying the purpose of others by becoming the distractor. Acknowledge if you have distracted someone from achieving their goals. If so, think about what triggered you to distract someone else. Were you successful in your distraction efforts? How did this make you feel? Have you forgiven yourself?
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Reevaluate your goal(s) to ensure alignment with your life’s purpose.
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Ask yourself what you are willing to do to achieve these goals? Think about your level of commitment to achieve this goal? What are some things you could do (objectives) to support your goal achievement?
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Identify any negative emotions (i.e., worry, fear, irritability) and think about ways to decrease the impact.
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Consider engaging with people who can enhance your qualities but are also able to provide constructive feedback.
Thank you for taking the time to read this blog post. My hope is that the above strategies can support you with decreasing distractions.