Focus is a 5-letter Word

Ever since I can remember, whenever I wasn’t doing as well as someone thought I should, the reason (or answer) would always lead back to one thing, focus. Whether it was homework, basketball practice or chores, the authority figures in my life would almost inevitably go back to the f word. Of course at a younger age, I didn’t really understand what they meant and as I got older, I realized that they probably didn’t know what they meant either. What does focus mean anyway? Well, according to dictionary.com the definition of focus (verb) is simple: to concentrate. Huh? If focus means to concentrate, then why didn’t they just say concentrate (they probably said that too)?

As I’ve matured personally, professionally and physically, I’ve realized that the ability to focus is a critical skill needed for success in all areas of life. But what really is focus? I know that it includes concentration, but it is much more than that, right? Well, I’ve come up with a definition of focus that is accurate and crucial in understanding.

F.O.C.U.S. is a five letter word. But seriously, it can be your best friend or your worst enemy. Focus on the “right” things and you’re good, focus on the “wrong” things and watch out! So what is the definition of focus? According to Parag Paleja the definition of F.O.C.U.S. is Fierce, Obsessive Concentration; Unrelenting Sacrifice. Okay, let’s take each letter of the word F.O.C.U.S. and break them down.

F stands for Fierce. You’re probably thinking fierce is kind of harsh, but its true. In order to focus, you have to be fierce. You have to be furiously eager or intense when it comes to the objective. Anything less than fierce would not do focus any justice.

O stands for Obsessive. Alright, I know, obsessive…does he have to be so brutal? Most people think negatively when they think of the word obsessed. But lets take a step back and look at the definition of obsess: to think about something unceasingly or persistently. Now that doesn’t sound so bad, right?

C stands for Concentration. Ahhh, concentration! You can’t have focus without concentration. They go hand in hand. Like brown on rice (or white) or peanut butter and jelly or oreos and milk (you get my point). Direct your attention towards a single point. So you’re probably thinking “Well, that’s what focus is”. Not quite, focus is more than that lets get to the last two letters.

U stands for Unrelenting. In order to be truly focused on something, you have to be unrelenting. You can’t waiver. You have to maintain and definitely not ease up! What are you not waivering or easing up on? Glad you asked…

S stands for Sacrifice. Most people probably don’t realize this (I sure didn’t) but sacrifice is crucial when it comes to focus. Why? Because when you are truly focused on something, you are sacrificing time and energy that could be spent on other things. However, sacrifice in regards to focus is a good thing, as long as your focused on the things that are going to help you achieve your goals!

Dictionary.com's definition of focus was partially correct, but it goes much deeper than that. A more complete definition of F.O.C.U.S. is Fierce, Obsessive Concentration; Unrelenting Sacrifice. The question is, what areas in your life are you focused or not focused on? Whether it's as big as starting a new business or as small as getting to the gym regularly, next time you focus on something, think about what it really means. I guarantee that it will transform your approach to, and accelerate the time in which, you accomplish your goals!