The Positive of Redirection

We have all faced significant challenges the past few months. For Allison and me, we had to make some major decisions. Allison was laid off work due to Covid-19 furloughs, our lease in the Atlanta area was ending and renewal wasn’t a good option, and public speaking opportunities dried up due to social distancing requirements. Quite frankly, it was depressing.

But there is good news! After allowing ourselves a brief moment for a pity party, we redirected our focus and, using tools I teach on a regular basis, we forged a new path.

One of the methods I suggest to clients to help identify ways to reach their goals is the More/Less method. (You can read my past blog on the topic HERE.) Simply, you list things you would like to do more of and those activities that you need to do less of. By focusing on the activities that maximize your energies, you will redirect your focus and see positive outcomes. One of my MOREs was to spend more time at the beach. It is the place where I feel most energized. So, we decided to rent a home on the beach while figuring out our next steps. It has been a wonderful time of renewal, reflection, and yes, redirection. I have more clarity on what I would like to focus on in my business post-pandemic and am recognizing what activities build me up and move me toward my goals.

The Social Media Trap

An activity that can derail goals is spending too much time on social media. Social media, at its core, is supposed to be, well, social. It was designed as a way to keep in touch with old friends, share pictures of important events and bring groups together. I think we all agree that it has morphed into so much more.

A friend of mine mentioned early during the quarantine that it was easier for her to reach out by email or phone to me because she could only be on social media for short spurts.

“Otherwise,” she said, “I find myself losing productivity hours easily because there’s so much good content even from the people I follow.”

Her point hit home, and I redirected my approach to social media. Loss of productivity and time creep are two real pitfalls to social media. What starts out with good intentions to catch up quickly on what is happening with my friends, turns into one hour or two of continued scrolling. So, what is the answer? How do we stay connected and yet focused on what is important at the same time?

1. Remember that social media can never take the place of personal contact. When was the last time you picked up the phone to talk with a “good” friend? Sending a small gift, for no reason other than thinking of someone, also shows you care more than the casual “like” on a picture.
2. Fight time creep. One hour turns into two…or more. We have all had it happen to us. My friend and business colleague Melinda with Resonate Your Ideas recently held a Facebook Live to address this very thing. You can watch the video here. She gives step-by-step instructions on best practices to maximize a minimal amount of time on social media. I found it helpful and hopefully after you have watched you’ll add me to your “list.”

Now is a perfect time for redirection. Few things in our daily lives are “normal” right now. Focus on your goals. As soon as you remember what you want to achieve it is easier to disconnect from the activities that are distracting you. Your dreams are what drive you. Accomplishing those dreams is what makes you happy.

Choose Powerfully!

BONUS: Take a few minutes to work through the MORE/LESS worksheet and start seeing positive change!