eMetro Times May 2017 | Page 11

May 2017

Page 11

Coffee Break with Dr . Andrea

TAKE YOUR BLINDERS OFF

One of the most anticipated events this time of year is the Kentucky Derby . Although , I ’ ve never attended it ’ s fascinating to watch the celebration as the winner crosses the finish line and listen as the commentator tells the sad stories of those that fail to finish .

These beautiful animals prepare for months to run a 2-kilometer race that ’ s over in a couple of minutes . They are often strapped with blinders to stay focused on the race in front of them . The blinders prevent the horses from looking to their side or rear , blocking out crowd distractions .

Right now , you may be saying to yourself , “ That ’ s me !” Do you feel like that Kentucky Derby contender with blinders on ? Are you just running your race full steam ahead ?

That level of focus and determination to cross the finish line , get that promotion , land that contract , or close that sale is to be admired . However , you can ’ t let your focus cause tunnel vision . Tunnel vision is defined as loss of peripheral vision or extreme narrow-mindedness . If you ’ re running , running , and running , you could miss that opportunity to your left that will actually shorten your distance , or make that race just a little bit easier . It ’ s time to take the blinders off ! I recently found myself in a situation that seemed like it was impossible . I had already designed the solution in my head , so I had a vision for what I was looking to achieve . All my energy and focus went toward looking for that one particular solution .

There ’ s nothing wrong with having a vision for what you believe you need . The problem comes when that is the only thing you ’ re looking to find . If you do not remain open to all the possibilities , you might just miss it .

I almost did , until someone challenged me with the question , “ What ’ s another way you could achieve the same outcome ?” This question forced me to look for alternative solutions . It gave me the courage to look past my blinders into the crowd .

Although this would not be helpful advice for that thoroughbred racing toward the finish line , it somehow gave me permission to get off the path and find another route .

Your next big opportunity may be to your right or to your left , and those blinders are blocking your view . If you ’ re struggling to move passed your tunnel vision , consider the following :

Take a pause break . Calling a timeout to your situation will give you a moment to process how far you ’ ve come . Sometimes the most powerful learning moments are captured in retrospect .

Ask yourself thought provoking questions . Just as someone asked me a question that focused my mind to think of alternative solutions , ask questions that intentionally move you away from your current focus .

Do activities that force you to get outside of your comfort zone . Activities outside your normal provoke creativity , because you can ’ t do what you would ordinarily do . Having a creative mindset will help you look at problems and potential solutions differently .

Many times , it ’ s our own blinders that keep us from achieving the level of success we seek . Unknowingly , these blinders block our view to the opportunities that may be in arm ’ s reach . Don ’ t let these obstacles keep you on the track running in circles too long . Take them off , and see all the possibilities in front of you .

IDG Vision Consulting & Training is located in Covington , GA . We help people / organizations get from where they are today ( point A ) to where they want to be ( point B ). Whether you are simply looking for motivation to build new skills or a strategic plan for success , we offer one-on-one and group coaching , workshops / seminars , and mastermind group studies to help achieve your goals . Contact us at 770-648-3758 to schedule a free consultation .

Stay Inspired ! Andrea Bowens-Jones , PhD

IDG Vision Consulting & Training – President / CEO

Certified John Maxwell Coach , Speaker , and Trainer idgvision . com | andrea @ idgvision . com

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