Have you ever noticed how what you focus on can change your mood, your day, your riding performance, and maybe even your life? Oh yeah, it's that powerful.

When Your Spotlight is “On the Fritz”

So, what happens when you fixate on the wrong stuff?

• Anxiety and self-doubt

• Frustration and anger when goals elude you

• Resentment towards others you perceive as "holding you back"

• Diminished self-esteem from non-stop comparison

• A gnawing lack of fulfillment even after you've ticked off those exterior markers of "success"

It's hard to believe that something as simple as focus could wreak this kind of havoc. But trust me, it can.

Lessons from 35,000 Feet and the Job Hunt

Take flying, for instance. Ever sat in a plane and spiraled into worst-case scenarios? Before you know it, your heart's racing, and you're gripped by anxiety. Been there, done that, flying into Denver a while back. It was an enlightening, albeit gut-wrenching, experience.

The same goes for my ongoing job search. Months without work can send anyone down a rabbit hole of worst-case scenarios. "What if I'm not good enough? What if it's like my previous nightmare jobs?" Suddenly, my heart's galloping and my mood's in the pits.

Steer Your Focus Like You Steer Your Ride

You can make or break your experience based on where you set your sights. Focusing on the endgame—like that dream job, or that perfect run in the show pen—can cloud your judgment and derail your efforts. Instead, focus on what you can do right now. That's where the magic happens.

The Nitty-Gritty of Action-Oriented Focus

It's akin to what you've likely encountered in disciplines like barrel racing or reining: obsessing over that fast barrel turn or the perfect slide stop can mess with your game. But if you simplify—first nail the straightaway speed, then your hand positioning, and finally the balance needed for that tight turn or stop—you're far more likely to make it happen just as you envisioned.

This action-based focus also gives you a psychological leg up. Each small win acts as a springboard, giving you the boost you need to tackle the next hurdle. And before you know it, you're clocking in achievements, one after the other.

The Wrinkle: What About Manifestation and Prayer?

Don't get me wrong, envisioning your goals has its place, whether you're into manifestation, prayer, or just good ol' positive thinking. But remember, those are your destinations, not your road map. Stay committed to the actions that'll get you there.

The Bottom Line

Your focus isn't just a spotlight; it's a laser beam that can cut through obstacles when aimed right. Dreaming is good; it gives you a heading. But your actions? Those are your coordinates and your engine.

So grab the reins, set your eyes on what you can do right now, and kick up some dust. Because when you focus on the actions, the results take care of themselves.

Until next week...

Adiós, mi amigos!

Abe

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