The Tribune

By MICHELLE M MILLER

They are seldom ever discussed, written about or analyzed, but they are there, constantly getting in the way, interrupting and interfering.

Despite their popularity, most of us are not very skilled at dealing with them. They are in control of most of our waking hours. At best, they obstruct business efficiency, and at their worst, they literally take over people’s lives. I’m talking about distractions: erratic, commonplace disruptions that are fast becoming a norm.

We live in a highly unpredictable time and these distractions take on various forms. From the hot gossip phone call that pulls you away from an important project, to the salacious media programme that captivates your attention. Distractions come in all sizes. Some last a few minutes while others, last hours or even days.

As a result, many live in a state of anxiety, so easily distracted, they are unable to keep control. The other key factor in a distracted mindset is the ever-evolving world of techno gadgets, which brings their own share of anxiety.

So much so that many become addicts, forever chasing the next new thing. Be it the latest iPhone, a new email, tweet or the latest face book update. People live in a zombie like state; foggy an unable to focus.

What’s the point of all this, you may ask? Some say it’s about the need to stay connected and informed. The question is: are people better informed and do these mechanisms really enable more connection? I believe that buying some new gadget is one thing; figuring out how it adds real value is another.

Here’s my point – you are either in control or you are out of control. Dominating distractions means having control over how you use your time and your ability to focus. An improved life hinges on your capacity to function effectively, mastering your habits and behaviours.

No matter how you slice it, constant distractions lead to a lack of productivity. They must be dominated and eliminated if productivity is to be achieved. No goal is ever realized amidst unbridled distractions.

Now I’m not suggesting that you become inflexible. Sure you must adjust and make room for minor distractions, here and there. This, however, must be the exception, not the rule. When you learn to control distractions, you move through life with more clarity and confidence.

The other issue is people tend to get stuck on the quantity of what they do, rather than the quality. Just look at the quality of information distributed via these various mediums, like Facebook or using ‘smart’ phones for some severely foolish things. Invariably, they are more informed about life problems than solutions.

Beyond this, our social climate is laden with persistent low quality behaviour, not only as it relates to crime, but basic lack of empathy and personal responsibility. Whether we like it or not, our behaviour is a direct indication of our information quality. Low quality information leads to low quality thinking and behaviour. We act on what we know.

Indeed, despite endless connection mechanisms, many are still disconnected and frustrated; not getting better at managing their lives. Instead, they are leery, overwhelmed and under informed.

This is the burden of distractions. If you don’t find ways to focus, you live in chaos. By dominating your distractions, you take control of your energy and direct your life with more enthusiasm.

You realize that it’s about the quality of what you do, not the quantity. Focusing and being discriminate in your attention is not some flimsy ideal. It speaks to self-governance and your capacity to manage your own freewill.

There is a fundamental reason why 2% of the people in the world own 98% of the wealth. Simply put, the 2% don’t waste time. They master their capacity to dominate distractions. Dominating takes discipline. It is a decision you must make consistently. Give in to distractions and you give away your power.

Clearly, life is about how you use your energy and time. Recognise that each of us have the same 24hours per day. Whether we choose to dominate or be dominated by our distractions determines the results we experience in our lives.

People, who defeat distractions, flourish - those who don’t continue to struggle.

The bottom line is your life is in your hands. Keep doing what you’re doing and you stay the same. You must find the audacity to manage your distractions. Formulate a plan to focus on things that adds meaning to your life. Make today the day that you take the lead in dominating those distractions that hinder your goals.

Now is time to shift your life paradigm.

What do you think? Send comments questions to coaching242@yahoo.com. Michelle M. Miller is a certified Life-Coach, Leadership Expert and Author of Take The Lead. She is the CEO of TTL Coaching Strategies and founder of the Girls Leadership Coaching Club. Questions or comments can be sent to email coaching242@yahoo.com or telephone 429-6770.