We hear and read much about the importance of being focused toward a goal. This implies that you should be singularly focused toward achieving a specific goal. In fact, I've frequently discussed this concept in many of my newsletters, even quoting Peter Drucker, "In this world nothing gets accomplished except by a monomaniac with a mission."

So . . . what happens to all of us (yes, I'm including myself here) who like a variety of different things and don't want to confine our efforts to just one? What's to become of us in a world that promotes focused determination?

Recently, I shared with a dear friend, Rev. Drew Vogt, how I truly believe in the importance of focused attention toward a goal.

Frequently, I make the argument for focused attention to one goal because I'm trying to convince myself. Rev. Drew reminded me of the key ingredient I've missed in this argument—I am focused, just as you are. I'm focused on accomplishing a variety of goals.

Much has been written about being present in the moment. When that occurs, you have become the focal point of your existence. As the focal point, any time you give your complete attention to something/ anything, you summon life force. That means that you have the power to choose what or where you wish to give your attention. For instance, if I'm choosing to paint rather than write or coach, as long as I give my complete attention to the task at hand, I'm focused.
The question then is, whether you're able to accept this characteristic. If you've been hard on yourself about being "scattered," now is the time to make peace with yourself. Here are some keys:

1. Have you labeled yourself as "scattered?" If you're jumping from one project to the next without completing anything, you may be scattered and will want to exercise self-discipline to complete some of those projects. Or you may want to ask yourself why you started the project in the first place and remember, guilt isn't a good motivator.

Being scattered isn't the same as intentionally having several projects going at the same time. There are people who are multi-faceted and enjoy working in this manner.

2. Do you feel guilty because you're working on one project and at the same time, telling yourself you should be focused elsewhere? That feeling of guilt robs you of becoming the focal point and present in the moment. Your mind is running rampant while you're mentally beating yourself up.

In that case, you may feel better if you list the projects you plan to do that day, delegate the time, and tell yourself you will become thoroughly focused on the task at hand. By focusing on the task at hand, you will feel utter satisfaction, knowing that you have delegated time to give your complete attention to the next project.

3. Are you fearful that not being singularly focused will prevent you from achieving success? If that's the case, then you may want to review exactly what success means to you. Is success only about material wealth or does personal satisfaction enter into it? Remember the old cliché—"success is in the journey." And to enjoy the journey, you have to be present in the moment, not focused on some future outcome.

Copyright '01 by Aleta Pippin, founder Authentic Entrepreneuring and Inner Sources. Visit www.aentrepreneur.com for FREE "how-to" assistance in achieving the success you desire. We also have manuals, books, coaching and more. Be sure to sign up for a free newsletter and/or Weekly Focus.