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Let’s face it, focus is not something that comes naturally. Especially when we are bombarded with so much information, and have 45,000 to 65,000 thoughts per day. It takes best practices to gain focus, much like a physical muscle we can work out—our “focus muscle.”

Think about gaining clarity like getting a prescription for a pair of glasses; the prescription must be uniquely tailored to you, and it allows you to see where you want to go. Without the glasses, things appear blurry; with clarity, you’ll be able focus.

Take a moment to answer these questions as you reflect to gain clarity on who you are and what you want.

1. How clear are you about where you’re going?

The more specific we are with our goals, the more real they become. How specific are you with your goals? A great litmus test is using the “SMART” goal-setting process—are your goals SMART (Specific, Measurable, Actionable, Realistic and Time-bound)?

2. What do you visualize when you goal-set?

The first ingredient for visualizing your goals is to write them down. Commit them visually to a place you see them on a regular basis—maybe on your bathroom mirror, next to your computer screen, or on the ceiling of your bedroom.

Next, make your visualized goals action orientated—maybe an empty mountain or thermometer that you fill in over time as you are getting closer and closer to your outcome.

Consider making a vision board; using pictures from the internet or magazines can help to visualize your goals more clearly.

3. What do you want and what’s stopping you?

Belief Systems are the building blocks of your goals—the gas that fuels your trajectory. What you believe is what will push you toward, or pull you away from, reaching your goals. All of our goals are fueled by our beliefs. What we think about day-after-day is what we become.

Suppose you have set as your goal that you want to make $1 million, but you don’t actually believe you can make $1 million, or that you’re not worthy of $1 million… then it flat out will not happen!

Here’s a simple test. Put your hand on the table or desk in front of you, and “TRY” to pick up your hand. Don’t actually pick it up, just “try” to pick it up. You’ll find that your hand stays in its current place. Why? Because of beliefs. A big difference between “Try” and “Do” is beliefs.

If your beliefs are not where they need to be, then get curious like curious George by asking questions of curiosity. For example, “I wonder what it would feel like to be a millionaire?”

4. What’s your capacity and how much of it are you using?

Maximizing capacity is key. Maximize your strengths and manage your potential weaknesses. Make sure your Passion, Purpose and Profit align on the right path. This will allow you to harness your power, naturally getting the most out of the things you’re good at, and empowering you to concentrate on getting the most out of the areas where you might struggle.

5. How are you measuring growth?

What gets tracked is what will improve. That’s why it’s essential to know what you’re measuring, how you’re measuring it, and why you’re measuring it. This will empower you to know if you’re focusing your efforts in the right places, and if you’re getting the most out of those efforts. Firm consistency over time is the key—no “magic bullet” or “get rich quick” stuff. Only consistent tracking and measuring with adjustments over time will get you the results you desire.

No matter how you define success, and no matter your personal or business goals, clarity is crucial for achieving success. So, get clear, get focused, and make adjustments as needed until you reach your desired outcomes.