It’s a long mile and a half of rough gravel road before I arrive at the gate to my property. As I drive I’m scanning the road to avoid the large sharp rocks that frequently stand between me and home.
I usually drive more in the center of the road, after all, there are no lines to encourage me to conform. Besides, I have more options for dodging those sharp rocks if I’m in the middle of the road.
But sometimes the clearer path is hard to the right against the edge that drops away several feet. Too far to the right and I’m off the road stuck and in need of assistance.
The middle of the road gives me more options and I’m less focused as a result. But when I commit to the right side close to the edge, avoiding a sharp obstacle in my path, I’m focused. I’m extra alert near the edge because I don’t have options. I’m committed.
Talking about focus Alexander Graham Bell had this to say, “The sun’s rays do not burn until brought to a focus.”
Too often we like to keep our options open in business. It has a place for sure, however, once we commit, once we make a choice it creates focus.
Focus allows us to accomplish things we wouldn’t otherwise be able to accomplish.
Consider if your current situation calls for keeping your options open or for focus. Sometimes the “easy” or lazy way is to keep our options open. At least it sounds good. But without focus, we fail to make much progress.
Is there a choice you need to make that will bring more focus to your business? That will allow your business to move forward because you’ve committed?