Focus on What Matters!

Lately, I have noticed that many people (me included) have been looking at life at a "macro" level. We look at the world and see everything that is wrong with it. We get irritated at all of the hypocrisy, divisiveness, liars, and outright hate in the world today. I have come to the conclusion that focusing at a Macro level is not the best way to walk through life. Micro focusing is the way to go!!!

While you may be able to add a little influence at a Macro level, you don't have much power to move the needle significantly enough to really make a difference. However, at a Micro level, you can be a much greater positive influence within your network and hopefully be able to increase your reputation through leading by example.

I am resolved to begin changing my life by focusing on what matters to me at a micro level. The things that I can control!!!

What are the things that I can control?

Integrity Matters

Be true to yourself and others. Don't lose or even compromise your Integrity. Once your integrity is compromised, it is extremely difficult to regain.

The world is full of people that lack integrity. These people talk out of both sides of their mouth and will say or do just about anything to advance their cause. Sure it may be easier to take the path of least resistance through deception, dishonesty and underhandedness, but that will only get you so far, and will ultimately be exposed.

Integrity is the foundation that your reputation is built upon. Maintaining your integrity will allow you the opportunity to build long lasting relationships, live fairly stress free, and increase the respect and your influence on others.

Your Circle of Close Friends Matter

People with friends lead happier lives. We all seek to be included, respected and most importantly we do not want to be lonely. That being said, you should be selective with the group of close friends that you keep.

Choose your close friends wisely. Your circle of close friends can either lift you up or bring you way down. Choose friends that will help you lead the life that you want to lead. Make sure that you have friends that you can trust, rely upon and you would not be embarrassed to tell others about. Your circle of friends says a great deal about your character.

Friendship is a responsibility as well. People choose to be friends with you for the same reasons that you choose to be friends with them. It is your responsibility to serve them with trust, respect, and lift them up in the same manner they would you.

Patience and Results Matter

There are very few shortcuts in life. One does not become a master of anything overnight. It takes patience, persistence, and hard work to achieve results. If you truly believe in something, don't give up on it and the first sign of adversity. And if at first you don't succeed, don't get angry or frustrated. Just take a deep breathe, reevaluate your approach and try again. It may take multiple failures prior to you succeeded.

Respect for Others Matter

Life is all about interacting with others. Some will share your beliefs and some will not. Some will share your values, some will not. Some will want to be your friend and some will not. Regardless of their position, you should demonstrated a level of respect for them as individuals.

Assume positive intent with everyone and treat them with respect until they provide you with sufficient evidence that they are not worthy of it.

Thoughts.....Comments.....Upvotes.....Followers???