Don’t Focus on the Rock

I don’t know about you, but I like to gnaw on my problems.

I focus on them intently, think about them from all angles, and poke and prod at them with the idea that a solution will fall out if I just worry long enough.

I’ve learned that this “problem focus” is, in fact, a facet of human nature. So there’s nothing wrong with me, nothing wrong with you… but this approach is not very effective. We stay stuck. 

Instead, if we can elevate our vision to look PAST the problem – to our desired vision for the future – then we can find a way forward with relative ease. 

An analogy for you: Imagine you're mountain biking. If you focus on the rock in front of you, you're likely going to hit it. 

BAM!  Ouch!  (I have indeed gone over the handlebars this way.)  

Instead, you want to look up ahead on the trail where you want to go. With that, you get smooth sailing and avoid the dang rock. 

So if you've been struggling with a persistent problem, I invite you to think about your vision beyond it. Imagine three months, six months, or a year from now, when you have successfully overcome this problem. From there:

• What is work / life / home like now that you’ve overcome the problem?

• Which of your strengths enabled you to get past it? 

• Who are you now that you've overcome it?

• What’s possible now? 

Let me know if you give this a try on your own. I’m always curious to hear how these tools work for folks.  And if you’d like to give this exercise a try with the support of your friendly neighborhood coach, just send me a quick message!