Often, we take on multiple commitments. They may all feel like priorities, or present as opportunities too good to pass up. But have you ever focused on just one commitment at a time? When we are spread too thin, we are forced to divide our intentions and efforts and may ultimately feel we have not been able to fulfill our commitments as we had hoped. Even for a short time, it can be helpful to focus on one commitment at a time, with full intention and energy, if only to compare the experience. As you do, consider the following:
- The focus is not on intensity but on consistent practice, action, progress, and outcome.
- Refrain from taking on multiple interests, hobbies, and projects at a time. Go narrow and deep in your commitments and see them through to the end. This will reduce overwhelm, the sense of excessive obligation, dread, and too many ‘open loops’.
- Be selective in relational commitments. Abstain from ‘forcing’ yourself to do things and see people if you are not genuinely motivated and sincere in doing so. Try not to mislead others in your intentions and plans.
- Be present to your chosen commitments as they happen. Engage in the moment. Experience your commitments fully and try not to ‘second-guess’ or revisit them mid-process.
- Execute your current commitment(s) with integrity.
Practice: Review your present commitments. Can you prioritize them? Are there any you can defer or delegate? Which are most pressing and interesting to you? See if you can narrow down your commitments and focus on one at a time in the moment. How does that feel?
Leave a Reply