Sometimes the greatest distance between you and your goal is you. My life has taken a very interesting and active turn of events in the past couple of weeks. Some of you may have already noticed but this blog now contains a link for a campaign to fund my book project. Yes, I have taken the leap and put some action behind my words. If you love or even like the material I share on this blog, please consider and donate to my campaign. Your donations are truly appreciated, and will be put to good work.
So, a week or so ago I reached out to an author friend of mine to purchase a few of her books. After speaking with her for two hours, I had set the deadline for completing my book, picked the title, established the day of my first book launch and signing, and obtained a book writing coach and mentor amongst a few other things. It wasn’t until I got off the phone that I realized what had just happened. I won’t lie, I am both extremely excited and nervous, BUT I am moving forward. Since that conversation, everyday I have a list of things related to this project I must complete. Truthfully speaking, it has been challenging at times getting my daily tasks completed. The amazing thing is I have been very aware of the things that contribute to me being distracted. Let me explain.
Some time ago my cousin attended a seminar in which one of their topics was “Hidden Commitments.” The definition she gave me was hidden commitments are the things that get in the way or prevent us from fulfilling the goals and commitments we make. As I have journeyed through these past couple of weeks, for once I can say I actually took notice and was very aware of the things that distract me and pull me off task when I am trying to accomplish something. It didn’t fail that everytime I sat down to write there was something else that all of sudden needed to be done. Some of it came from outside sources (i.e. family, friends, anybody else needing something), and then other times it was simply me. I would sit down, and all of sudden run through the list of things that I needed to do. If it wasn’t the laundry, it was cooking. If it wasn’t cooking, it was cleaning or going to pick up something else that I had forgotten. I mean everything except sitting still and writing. Normally, I would instantly get up and go do or address whatever it is that came up, but not this time. This time there was something in me that said, “No, it can wait,” and wait it did.
I am amazed at how much I have gotten accomplished by being aware of my hidden commitments, and having the power to say, “No, I will deal with you when I’m done.” Now this doesn’t mean that I was neglectful of my family or my responsibilities. No, no I did, however use wisdom to know when there was something that truly needed to be handled at that time, or if it was something that could wait. I don’t know about you, but too often I put the needs of others before my own. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, it just shouldn’t be the case all the time. One of the mantra’s I once heard at a business conference was, “If it’s to be, it’s up to me.” If we are to accomplish any of the goals, commitments, and dreams that we set, we have to set aside time solely dedicated to the tasks necessary to accomplish our goals. Most importantly we have to learn to say, “No, not right now. It can wait.” Today, I challenge you to set aside time each day to work on the tasks and assignments that need to be accomplished in order for you to reach your goal; and during those set times be laser focused on your goal at hand. Be like the Practicing Mind, don’t multitask, and see how much more productive you feel and get accomplished.
As always, I thank you for stopping by. I hope this encourages you. Remember today is a great day to make a positive difference and impact in the lives of those around you by being friendly, showing favor, and giving love! Peace and Blessings unto you!
T Lynn Tate 