What you focus on expands, and when you focus on the goodness in your life, you create more of it. Oprah Winfrey
It really is so true that you’ve got to always make sure you are focusing on the right things as you move through the day. This is something I really try to be aware of now as I move through the day because honestly for far too many years I wasn’t doing it. I would just go through the day and whatever thought popped into my mind was what I focused on.
I really don’t understand why he doesn’t listen and insists on doing it the wrong way.
I am in such a hurry. Can she please move out of the way so I can get to where I need to be?
Why is she so rude and annoying?
But, then I realized there was a much better way. Instead of running with any thought that came to mind, I could actually choose to not focus on the small things that bothered me and instead focus on the right things. And, when I was able to do it successfully, there were so many benefits.
I felt better and had the right energy flowing as I moved through the day. I wasn’t weighed down by negativity and so I was able to focus on the things that were really important. I was able to be more aware of the good things about people and focus my attention there. The benefits were endless and I felt things improve instantly.
So, after seeing how much better it was to move through the day like that, I am sure you understand why my new MO is “Stop focusing on the small things and start focusing on what really matters”. And, of course I want you to join me.
Don’t Waste Your Time on Nonsense
Life is short and our time is precious. The last thing we want to do is waste any of it on the small stuff that doesn’t help us feel like we want to feel and doesn’t help get us to where we want to be.
Do people say and do things they shouldn’t? Of course. Are some people rude and inconsiderate? Unfortunately. But, we don’t have to let other people’s bad behavior get in the way of our own peace of mind and happiness.
The reality is when you focus on the wrong things, you are more apt to overlook the good things and that will impact the way you feel and your mindset. Refuse to let that happen. There is just too much good out there waiting for you that you never want to miss out on.
The Possibility of Today:
1. Commit to not focusing on the “small” things. Decide today that you are no longer going to allow the small things to take up any space in your mind. Don’t burden yourself or your mind with the things that really don’t matter in the long run.
2. When small things come to mind, choose to focus on something different. If you notice something and it bothers you, a negative thought may pop into your mind. Allow it to rise to the surface, but just let it pass through your system. Don’t give it any more energy by vocalizing it or focusing on it. Just let it be and eventually it will just disappear.
3. Realize all the benefits. When you free your mind from the nonsense, the benefits you will notice are enormous. As soon as you move through one day successfully without allowing the “small things” to bog down your mind, you will notice how much better you feel and how everything just flows better. Try it today. It will be one of the best things you have ever done for yourself.
Great post as usual Sibyl. I used to focus on the little things and had a very negative mindset for years. In hindsight, I only attracted people or situations that reflected my thoughts. I do allow the little things to pass through but I also replace the negative thoughts with positive ones. If that doesn’t work, I write it down just to get it out of my head and move on.
Andrea: Thanks for the comment and for dropping by. All that information you shared is really helpful. I think that anything that can help you move on is one of the best things you can do for yourself. Thanks so much for sharing your wisdom here.
For years I would freak out over the dumbest little things! I would get myself all worked up and angry that sometimes I thought I was literally going to either pass out or have a heart attack. Then one day I just stopped short, asked myself, “Can I do anything about this RIGHT NOW?” If there was nothing I could do, in any way, about the situation at that moment in time, I told myself to let it go! I told myself that maybe later, when I could think more clearly, I would find the answer and if not, maybe it wasn’t my problem to solve or my problem to begin with. I realized that getting myself all worked up over something that maybe wasn’t worth my energy was not doing myself any good and wasn’t solving the problem. I have since then not gotten worked up over little things and I feel so much better. I am a more relaxed person and I am able to let things go easier. This is not to say that I let things go that matter. I just put them aside for a moment until I am not so wrapped up in them that I think clearer! It is like a big sigh of relief!
Heather: Thanks so much for the comment. I am glad you stopped by and took the time. I like that idea you shared of asking yourself, “Can I do anything about this right now? I think that is such a good first step and can provide the space and time to calm down. I know I have definitely used that time and space at certain times:)
Dear Sibyl,
“small” things…?
Today I came face to face with “The Bigger Picture”.
The ugly drama that I did not completly realize occuring.
I do take responsibility for my part.
I am sadden.
I feel complete humilation.
I am wrong.
A friend cannot always be made on the low road.
To you, I will never be able to express my gratitude fully for being by my side while I walked my roads in ignorance and not grace.
Today is a new day to realize freedom from ‘Big’ and “small” alike.
God bless you…even more…you use his love to help others without casting judgement.
Thanks Rand for the comment and for stopping by. I am so glad that you liked the article and have found the things here at Possibility of Today helpful.
Thank you Sybil, keep it going, your quotes are always right on time for me and are deeply appreciated!!
I am so glad Tiffany:) Thanks so much for taking the time to drop by the site and let me know. I really appreciate the feedback:)
Such a nice reminder to read today!
Thanks so much Jacyln:) I am so glad you liked it. Thanks for dropping by and letting me know.
This is a great post, and I have often had things pop into my mind and then it occupied some time there. It’s a great idea to just take a week off to train yourself to focus in a more determined way on the things you want to do. The possibilities of today are great, string together 5 more days and you might be on the way to a great habit.
Tish: It’s such a good point you make. You do have to take the time to train yourself to break the bad habits that you have been so accustomed to for so long. I am so glad that you enjoyed the post. Thanks for the comment and thanks for taking the time to let me know.
Another wonderful post from you Sibyl. By just concentrating on small things we sometimes loose focus on the big one. Great post.
Siva
So very true Siva. And there’s nothing as important as focusing on the right things:) Thanks so much for the comment and for dropping by.
thank you very much for this going through a stressful time my partner is 84 and i am 60 he has been very good in my life but now he blame me of talking to other people i don’t listen to him anymore etc. i find he always treated me like i can’t think for myself and when i’m right nothing to say it’s been rough but by the grace of God i am making it and people like yourself with great outlooks on life thank you again
That is a great post. And it makes a lot of sense.