“Gotta Maintain, Stay Focused”: Staying focused on your purpose in the midst of adversity

“Setback isn’t failure. It is often just the encouragement we need for greater inspiration.”

Staying focused on our goals during difficult times is probably one of the hardest things to do; the “overworked, underpaid” lifestyle and its effect on mental health is just the tip of the iceberg, and a lot of us, tbh, are already scarred. We all want the chance at our own “American Dream” and we’re fighting for it every day. Here’s some quick tips you may find helpful in remaining focused through those trying times:                                                                                                           

1.       Read an inspiring quote every morning.

There are a plethora of apps you can download that send positivity to you daily. You can even take your favorite quotes, write them on post-it notes, and strategically place them throughout your living space. That positive affirmation is definitely a morning mood booster! Your mornings are often an indicator of just how well your day will go and it’s best to start it off right.

2.       Write your thoughts down.

It’s best to always write your thoughts down, good, bad, or indifferent, so you can better understand your feelings. You can always come back to them later, and make more sense of them after the moment has passed. It’s also a stress reliever. Write it all down: your goals, accomplishments, why you started in the first place…nothing is too big or small.

3.       Plan your days

This is really important, especially if you’re in-between jobs or have decided to live your dreams full time; idle time is the devil’s playground. The last thing you want to happen is having weeks/months/years go by, and you have nothing to show for yourself. Schedule as much of your day as possible, and stick to it to see how much you’ve accomplished over the next month!

4.       Have faith in where you are and trust your process.

Believe in your gift. Trust in the fact that everything happens for a reason and you have to be grateful for what life has provided you, even your current circumstance; it’s all for a greater purpose. If you can appreciate the moment you’re in, you’ll make it through to what lays ahead for you.

5.       Think positively about your future.

You have to think positively, especially regarding your future. Positive thinking helps manifest your dreams and visions into a reality. My sister and I even share this saying: “I don’t have dreams, I have goals, ” and that alone can help shift your mindset significantly. Know what you want, and be able (and willing) to cancel any unnecessary noise in order to focus on your goal.

6.       Remember why you started.

You have purpose and you’re in this current position for a reason. You decided to start this process because you are ready to reveal what you have to offer the world. The purpose and path for your life is yours and yours alone.

These steps work out for me, but if you’re having trouble staying positive, tailor these to anything personal that’ll help in aiding your positive attitude. There will always be trying times, and it’s always easier said than done, but a positive attitude and positive thinking, coupled with practical strategies, can definitely help with navigating these transitional periods in life.

Written by: Breanna Simone