26 Apr Mastering Your Attention: An Intentional Approach to Control
This IS Part of the 'Control The Controllables' series
Welcome to Part 4/5
In this article, we will explore the concept of attention and focus, and how they relate to personal responsibility in controlling the controllables.
What is Attention?
Attention and focus are often used interchangeably, but they have slightly different meanings. Attention is the ability to selectively concentrate on certain aspects of our environment while ignoring others, while focus is the ability to sustain attention on a particular task or object. To focus our attention, we must first become aware of how we are using it. This requires personal responsibility and self-awareness.
Daniel Goleman's Insights on Attention and Focus
One key intellectual involved in the study of attention and focus is psychologist Daniel Goleman, who wrote the book “Focus: The Hidden Driver of Excellence.” Goleman argues that attention is a critical driver of excellence in any endeavor and that our ability to focus on what is important is essential for success. He identifies three types of attention: inner, other, and outer, and suggests that we need to cultivate each of these types to achieve optimal performance.
Components of Flow
Another expert in this field is Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, who wrote the book “Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience.” Csikszentmihalyi argues that focus is a key component of flow, the state of being fully immersed in an activity and experiencing a deep sense of enjoyment and fulfillment. He identifies five levels: 1) sensory awareness, 2) selective attention, 3) cognitive attention, 4) emotional attention, and 5) spiritual attention.
There are also various models of attention that describe the different components of attention. One such model is the “Attention Network Model,” which identifies three distinct networks of attention: alerting, orienting, and executive control. The model suggests that these networks work together to help us focus our attention on what is important.
Obstacles and Distractions
In today’s world, distractions are everywhere, and our focus can easily be pulled away from what really matters. It’s common to waste attention on things that don’t serve us. For example, mindlessly scrolling through social media or getting lost in a stream of irrelevant news. In fact, a study found that the average person spends around 2.5 hours per day on social media, and this number is only expected to rise.
This misuse of our focus not only wastes our time, but can also negatively impact our mental health, productivity, and overall well-being. It’s important to recognize these distractions and take responsibility for how we use our attention. By focusing on what truly matters, we can avoid these common misuses and cultivate a more intentional and fulfilling life.
What's In Your Head?
Negative self-talk can be a major barrier to focusing our attention on the things that matter. When we constantly engage in negative self-talk, we reinforce a negative reality and create a self-fulfilling prophecy. One of the leading proponents of this idea is Dr. Daniel Amen, a psychiatrist and brain imaging expert. According to Dr. Amen, negative self-talk is one of the major contributors to depression and anxiety. He believes that by changing our thoughts and focusing on the positive, we can change the way our brain works and create a more positive reality.
Another expert in this area is Dr. Kristin Neff, who works with the concept of self-compassion. Self-compassion involves treating ourselves with the same kindness and understanding that we would offer to a good friend. This approach can help to counteract negative self-talk and improve our overall mental well-being.
Taking Responsibility for YOUR Focus
Ultimately, personal responsibility is crucial in controlling our focus. We must become aware of how we are using our attention and make intentional choices about where we direct it. By taking responsibility for it, we can achieve greater success and fulfillment in our lives.
Attention and focus are essential components of controlling the controllables. By understanding the different types and levels, as well as the various components of attention, we can become more intentional in how we use our focus. By taking personal responsibility for our focus, we can achieve greater success and fulfillment in all aspects of our lives.
I am a Freedom Coach and Mentor – I mostly help freedom-loving people create a Successful Mindset. If you would like to explore some of these themes and move towards achieving more freedom this year, let’s connect and set up a call
Other Articles in This 'Control The Controllables' Series
Learn to control your response to situations!
Learn to control your motivations!
Learn to control your diet and overall well-being!
Learn to plan and strategise for success!