“Center of Focus”

We each have what we call a Circle of Concern that encompasses everything we’re concerned about… We also have another circle that usually falls within this Circle of Concern called the Circle of Influence. This circle defines the area of concern where we can actually make a difference. We may not be able to influence the threat of nuclear war but we can do something about our health. We may also be able to influence family plans or the neighborhood store’s magazine display.

But the most effective use of our time and energy is generally in a third circle – the Center of Focus. In this circle are the things we’re concerned about that are within our ability to influence, that are aligned with our mission, and are timely.

To spend time and effort in any other circle diminishes our effectiveness. When we operate in our Circle of Concern, we basically waste effort on things we have no ability to control or affect. When we operate within our Circle of Influence, we do some good, but what we do may be at the expense of something better.

When we set and achieve goals that are in our Center of Focus, we maximize the use of our time and effort.

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