In Others’ Words: Direction and Focus

I select a quote for various reasons. A quote may:

make me laugh.
make me pause and realize, “Now there’s a new way to think about (fill in the blank).”
challenge my “I’ve got this all figured out” preconceived idea.
give me some practical ways to approach life.

 

Today’s quote is a bit of practical wisdom that, if heeded, would lead to more forward motion and less tripping over my verbal missteps. Each time I read it, I found myself nodding my head and thinking, “Got that right.”

And then I stopped and thought: But where do I direct my anger? Problems or people? Where do I focus my energies? Answers or excuses?

Because if I’m thinking “Got that right!” then the question is: Am I doing it right? Or am I fooling myself?

Last week I was angry about a certain situation. I stewed about it mentally — and yes, when I talked about it (and I did), I named the names of those who I held responsible for the situation. Guess what? Directing my anger at these people didn’t improve my attitude or what was going on at all.

But when I sat down with a trusted advisor and asked for counsel — when I stopped venting and listened — then, and only then did I start seeing a way to possibly change what was happening. Am I guaranteed a positive outcome? No. But one thing is certain: grumbling fueled by anger will get me nothing — except further discontent.

In Your Words: How do you determine your focus when anger trips you up? Any tips for avoiding excuses when what you really need is answers?

 

Direction and Focus: How It Makes a Difference #lifequotes
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Anger and Excuses vs. Direction and Focus #lifequotes
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