As we go about our lives, we face many difficulties. There are so many distractions that we have to deal with regularly. When times are hard, we often find ways to escape to cope. The problem that arises is that we don’t usually choose healthy ways to deal with them, and this often leads to compulsive behavior and overindulgence. I can recall a time when I was in 3rd grade. I had a teacher named Mrs. Smith. During class, I would get distracted and not pay attention at times. I wasn’t giving my best effort on the spelling tests as well. She began to notice and pulled me aside one day to talk about my behavior. Mrs. Smith was stern in her demeanor and forceful in the way that she spoke. I guess you can say it was what I needed. I eventually started to apply myself and focus in the class and ended up doing well on my spelling tests. Sometimes we need to be motivated and pushed by someone else to do better. I appreciate that teacher because she taught me a valuable lesson. I learned the benefits of eliminating distractions, focus, bringing awareness to problems as they arise and being conscious of your behavior at all times.
There is unbelievable power in focus because what you focus on grows. The problem is that we tend to focus on things that we do not control. We then try to change those things as well. When you start to focus on what you can control, which is your mind and the decisions that you make, your life begins to change. One of the best decisions I made was to address the addictions that I created trying to escape my problems. I had various vices which included, opiates, unhealthy binge eating, and many others. One of the hardest things I’ve done in my life was eliminating opiate use. The withdrawal was one of the toughest things I have ever experienced. Even though it was difficult, I wouldn’t change anything about the experience because it gave me the mental fortitude and willpower I needed. I also developed the confidence and belief in myself that I could overcome any feat placed in front of me. That decision led to other ways to exercise willpower as well. I became a vegetarian to deal with my unhealthy relationship with food and overindulgence. All of those decisions benefited me because it gave me the mental clarity I needed to focus on what truly matters.
We are all hurting at this very moment because of the current climate of America. People have had to deal with health issues, the loss of loved ones, financial problems you name it. What we must understand is that during our most difficult challenges, we grow and develop. For that to happen, we must focus our attention on things we can control, which is how we respond to the difficulties we face. We must respond with dignity, courage, composure, and love. Begin today to focus on yourself and cultivate those habits that will allow you to grow and develop. Right now, what we need to do is develop the mental fortitude, willpower, clarity, and confidence. To overcome the difficulties we currently face. At times we may not have anyone to motivate and push us to do better. It has to come from within through self-reliance. Once you begin to look within for the answers you seek, you will then find solutions that will change the world for the better. Until next time, may you be encouraged and filled with power and love. Be you. Be great.
Love 