Seeing impact and results quickly is an important expectation and the best way to accelerate results is by FOCUS.

Eva Wong, Director of the Center for Public Leadership at Harvard provides at least one reason why. Her research shows that coaching maintains a leader’s FOCUS on their goals and prevents the typical “implementation dip” that inevitably happens with time. Dr. Wong reveals that coaching sustains the FOCUS, providing the time and attention that allows more and deeper embedded knowledge and skill.

Gary Schliefer, of Choice (the magazine for professional coaching) explores the concept of FOCUS and tells us that leaders can get the results they want if they determine the right FOCUS. Without FOCUS leaders fall into patterns of distraction or chase things that do not ultimately achieve the results they want. A key question is, “If you were to have that result, what would it give you?” followed by … “If you were to get that, what would it give you?” …asking 2-4 times – what is revealed is a very important and critical result that will deeply motivate and drive attention.

Daniel Goleman powerfully reminds us in FOCUS: The Hidden Driver of Excellence, attention has blossomed far beyond vigilance. The skill of attention, of FOCUS, determines how well we perform any task. This supple tool embeds within countless mental operations including; comprehension, memory, learning, sensing how we feel and why, reading emotions in other people, and interacting smoothly. When we surface the invisible factor of effectiveness – it becomes evident how important it is to improve and understand this mental faculty. FOCUS matters enormously in how we navigate life and all its demands. It is indeed an elusive and under-appreciated mental faculty in the mind’s operation of living a fulfilling and successful life. FOCUS and attention works like a muscle – if we use it poorly it can wither; work it well and it grows. Goldman asserts that having FOCUS distinguishes experts from amateurs and stars from average performers.

Mike Schmoker, shouts on the rooftops of schools in FOCUS, that educators must understand and embrace the concept of simplicity. FOCUS on what is essential; what we teach, how we teach and authentic literacy. When we narrow the FOCUS to the most essentials, we have the potential to impact student success greater than all other initiatives combined.

During this month you are invited to explore the power of Focus and the strategies and tools that support ourselves and others in getting the results we all want. I’m betting you can’t wait for more…