Don't Get Sidetracked - Focus on the Present Instead of Getting Mired in the Past

Many people struggle with the concept of using their time more efficiently. They seem to think that they need to get everything done, and done right now. However, this simply is not true. In reality, the most efficient way to spend your time is to get things done in small segments, instead of doing them all at once.


In order to effectively use your time, you need to focus on the present instead of getting mired in the past. When you do this, it becomes easier to get things done. It also makes it much easier to achieve your goals. If you want to become a better leader, for example, it would make a great deal of sense to focus on the present instead of getting mired in the past.

One of the ways you can effectively use your time is to give yourself time to get organized. Whether you need to get out of a sticky situation or have a problem that is preventing you from focusing, give yourself a few minutes to sit down and address the issue. At times, this is easier than you might realize. As you are sitting down to solve the problem, ask yourself, "What are the worst things that could happen?" That may sound simplistic, but it gets you thinking in a different way. You might come up with a list of annoying issues, which gives you something to work against instead of focusing on the things that are already making you miserable.

Once you have come up with a list of issues, write them down on paper. Then, go through your list a number of times to be consistent. Next, ask yourself: "What are the worst things that could happen?" Again, this might sound simplistic, but it gets you thinking in a different way. You'll start to see all of the little things that aren't worth worrying about and get started on the tasks that do make you happy.

Once you've made a list of all of the most important and least important things, then it's time to start planning how you will get around them. Write a short summary of each item on your list. On the summary, put the worst possible outcome that you think could occur, along with any positive result that you expect will result. Be realistic.

This next tip will help you focus on the present instead of getting mired in the past. Rather than working toward an unattainable goal, focus on the now. It sounds simple, but it is an extremely powerful tip that can have amazing results. Here's how it works:

If you're committed to getting a certain result, your mind will naturally turn to the future. Your subconscious mind knows that the future holds many possibilities and so it puts your attention on those things that are most likely to happen. In other words, all things that are possible are your goals. You can even consciously focus on all of the things that are possible without having to see what you've already accomplished. It is a simple trick, but one that have incredible results.


The reason this works is because you are in control of your future. Rather than trying to control the past, you focus on the future. And since you're the future, you get to choose the future instead of being in the presence of the past. It is an amazingly powerful principle. If you truly want to get things done, you must practice this and make it a habit. By focusing on the present, you will not get sidetracked by what has happened in the past, and you'll be able to take action that leads to a more successful life.