Keeping Focus

Just say a simple, “Yes, I will,” or “No, I won’t.” Your word is enough. Matthew 5:37

We all need focus to live out God’s calling. But how do you maintain focus? Know when to say no. And learn to say no with kindness, grace, and strength.

Learn to identify distractions. For example, your home needs to be cleaned—but you don’t have to be the only one cleaning it. (Yes, your family—even your friends—can help. Sometimes our own pride stands in the way of accomplishing a goal. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness!) Before you make the phone call, reorganize the closet, or volunteer on a project, ask, “Am I the only one who can do this?” Try to spend the majority of your time doing what you do best. Try praying this verse (paraphrased): “Teach [me] to number [my] days aright, that [I] may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12, NIV).

Learn what can wait. Remodeling the kitchen, repapering the bedroom, and repainting the bath—wait, wait, wait! Sometimes the adage “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!” does buy you time. People often ask me how I accomplish the amount of work I do and still find time to write. It is simply because I don’t do many things: I don’t shop much, I don’t craft much, I am choosey about social engagements, and I don’t need to be entertained.

Ask yourself, Do I really need to do this now?