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The Power Of Focus
This article emphasizes the importance of being able to stand still and center one's attention on the task at hand. Successful completion of any task requires an ability to follow directions which starts with an ability to pay attention when the directions are given.
Years ago I was having lunch with my first karate instructor. At the time my instructor was in command of a group of eleven (11) Special Forces soldiers. During our lunch that day we talked about life in general and then the conversation shifted to the military and to the martial arts. At one point in the conversation my instructor asked me, “Do you know what the most important thing is that I do for my group of Special Forces soldiers.” I wasn’t sure of the answer, but let me take a moment to help everyone understand just who these Special Forces soldiers were. The group ranged in age from 22-35 years old. All of these men were experts in various fields ranging from communications, weapons, to numerous other military competencies. These soldiers were the TOP OF THE LINE.
Now back to my story. I asked my instructor what the answer was. He paused for a moment and said, “The most important thing that I teach my men is to STAND STILL AND LOOK STRAIGHT WHEN I TALK TO THEM.” Remember, these are highly trained soldiers who rank among the best that our country has to offer. His next sentence was this. “If this is the most important thing that I teach my men to do, can you understand what an advantage that you are giving children as young as five (5) and six (6) years of age?”
His point was well taken. Think about it for a moment. A young boy or girl who can focus on the task at hand and block out any distractions has an incredible advantage over other children who may not practice these skills. It’s important that we all understand this very important point: Focus is a practiced skill. The simple act of being able to listen and follow directions is a skill that all young people should learn and continually practice at a very young age. It’s a skill that we as parents and teachers should help them practice in order that they become very good at it.
I tell you this story because I encourage you to think about the power that sound fundamentals and basic listening skills can have on our young people
Note: The story applies to all of us of all ages. No matter your age or your skill level, continue to develop your ability to:
Focus your eyes
Focus your ears
Focus your mind
Focus your body