Get Back in the Zone – Your Distractions

In today’s fast-paced world, attention deficit, in all its forms, is prevalent, especially among our youth. Distractions surround us. When we become more aware of what is transpiring within and around us, we may recognize that our biggest distraction lives within us.

Our brains and lives are overwhelmed by constant stimulation. From over-scheduled commitments and devices to external noise, flashing neon signs, alarming news, and the constant barrage of information from news and social media sources, our brains are constantly overstimulated. Many of us operate in “GO” mode without enough rest or downtime, leading to higher stress levels that make us feel like we are trapped in a hamster wheel, constantly seeking an escape.

The phrase “keeping up with the Joneses” deserves our close attention. Is there social pressure behind our schedules and how we live? Are we sacrificing our status, wealth, or social standing to keep pace with our peers? It’s vital to prioritize our well-being and that of our families. When do we truly grasp this? What does optimal balanced living look like for us and our loved ones? Recognizing what triggers aggression leads us to want to run and hide. Identifying antidotes and opportunities are all steps in the right direction. By slowing down, paying close attention, and making good choices, we can break free from the cycle of distractions and find clarity and focus.

Alignment—the desire to align our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors with our true selves—is crucial. Are we choosing to show up in the world as we are, or are we operating based on the systems we’ve built for ourselves? Ask yourself, are you a human being or a human doing? Can you recognize the differences?

Overstimulation can distract us from what truly aligns us with our vision of who we are and our purpose in life. Eliminating distractions helps our brains focus on the task at hand, bringing clarity and efficiency to all we do. When passion, purpose, and productivity become our way of being in the world, we get to bring our big vision to life.

Learning to sit with ourselves, becoming more mindful, eliminating distractions, and witnessing how our brains operate is key to training our brains. Our brains are designed to think constantly, but it’s our responsibility to train them to stay focused and attentive. When a dog sees a squirrel and runs toward it, it is reacting rather than responding and acting rather than observing. As “humans doing,” we share a similar experience.

Our minds can easily get distracted by new outfits, funny memes, video games we haven’t mastered, or our favorite treats. To regain awareness and control, continue to breathe, feel, and notice your thoughts. Slow down your mind to increase awareness. Meditation helps you become the witness of your thoughts, allowing you to reclaim your power and strategically place your thoughts for optimal living.