Handling Distractions

Distractions are always the biggest threat to our success in situations, performances, and interactions. Distractions get in the way of what we are doing by taking us out of being present, blocking information, and keeping us from making appropriate responses. How we handle distractions determines what happens next and eventually how successful we can be in every experience.

The most disruptive distractions can be assigned to three categories: people, thoughts, or things. People become distractions when we focus on what they are doing or not doing rather than what we are doing. Our thoughts become distractions when we look for meanings, hold expectations, or are fearful. Distracting things include objects in a meeting room, crowds at an athletic competition, or a room that is too hot or cold.

To handle distractions quickly and effectively gently redirect focus to what is in front of you and can be done right now. Fighting with or trying to ignore distractions only guarantees the mind’s focus on them. Since the mind follows focus, redirecting focus automatically changes focus. For example, if your thoughts are on what you fear, you need only redirect focus to what you desire. When an object captures your focus, shift your view to the task before you and how you can do the task, which eliminates the distracting object from your focus.

By redirecting focus you handle distractions by instantaneously changing focus to what is informational and useful in an experience. When that new focus is on the people, thoughts, and things that lead to success, you are well on your way to effectively doing what you intended and making appropriate responses that will lead to success.

©2009 Dr. Jane Miner - PERSONAL Solutions. For more information or support for your personal solutions contact me at jane@janeminer.com. May be reprinted with this attribution fully intact.

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