Drift or Focus? Which would you choose? Hey, don’t get twisted up over this. Both are okay. It just depends on where you are in your life.
For some, each day will be energized with challenge. Lofty goals and driven purpose. Success will come from intense focus, from being intentional in everything you choose to do. That intensity is both exhilarating and addictive.
Okay, good for you. You have committed to excellence; but recognize that you are now vulnerable. Failing to meet your stated goals can be devastating. See the letter “F” in the Young Adult version of my I Am Responsible workbook.
Other people might be satisfied with drifting from one event to the next, with accepting whatever comes their way.
For them, there is no need to stress. Simple joys can be found in the most basic encounters. For example, your partner walks into the room and smiles, just glad to see that you are there. Or your dog gives a hearty woof to remind you that it is dinner time. Nothing wrong here. Simple joys. Good for you.
One caution, though. If you are old, as I am, you might feel justified in saying, “Hay, leave me alone. I have paid my dues, and it is time for me to sit back and enjoy whatever time I might still have.” Nothing wrong with that, either. Maybe, but maybe not.
If you are old, you might find it comfortable to put up walls and simply drift through each day. Sure, you have earned that right; but would that be the most fulfilling choice to make? Instead, consider sharing your experiences with others. Those experiences just might prove valuable to young people as they forge their own path.
Do that and you might help someone learn from your successes or, more important, avoid some of the mistakes you might have made along the way. That would be good.
Drift or Focus? Which would you choose?