I pulled a card out of my intention box today, and it said, “Energy flows where my intention goes.” I am changing it to “Energy flows where my attention goes.”
What Has My Attention
You can bet that whatever has my attention has my energy, so I am careful where I put my time and focus. Mindset is everything these days. As an entrepreneur I do not want to spend a lot of time on a problem; I want to find a solution, which requires concentration. If I am not in a good state physically or emotionally, it is hard to lead. My physical state is usually evidence of where my attention is focused.
I must start my day by setting my intention, planning the day, and knowing where my energy will flow. I carefully prioritize what is going to get my focus. Then, at the end of the day, week, or month, I can clearly see where and what had my attention the most. And the best part is I can see if progress was made. It is then I can see where I can change and what should get my attention moving forward.
My Work Attention
I have a few projects I am working on right now. I carefully plan which project gets the most of my energy and time. As these projects are moving forward, some go at a much quicker pace and seem to flow and be on track. Others may take more time to get started and flowing. The projects that are struggling need more attention, and those that seem to be working smoother get the most.
Entrepreneurs have to make this decision constantly. I make my own deadlines, I am the boss of these projects, and sometimes they have to be scratched or shelved for a while. Whichever project is right in front of me has my attention at that given moment.
Staying in the present moment and fully focusing on my current task works best. I have learned over the years that while trying to fit it all in and multitask can at times work, it is not great all the time. I have learned that giving 100 percent of my awareness to the task in front of me will serve me better in the long run.
Take Stock Of Your Attention
When was the last time you took a close look at what has your attention? How much time do you give to each area of your life? Track your focus once, and it will change you in such a powerful way. You will never again say, “I have no idea where the day went.” You will know because you are aware of where your attention goes!
Make a chart and put everything on it—projects, assignments, family time, social time, everything. Then make sure you look at it to see where exactly you put your time, energy, and attention.