diff --git a/_drafts/2020-02-29-influence.md b/_drafts/2020-02-29-influence.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..ff31b55 --- /dev/null +++ b/_drafts/2020-02-29-influence.md @@ -0,0 +1,76 @@ +--- +title: "Daily Blog: Influence" +permalink: "/influence" +description: "If it is outside your circle of influence, do not waste time and energy." +keywords: "" +image: "team-lab" +image-attrib: "Digital light show with Team Lab: Borderless" +--- + +I first learned about the concept of "Circle of Influence" in a book written by Stephen Covey called "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" + +It basically represents the aspects of our lives with which we can actually have some impact. + +What we read, what we buy, what activities we do. + +These are actual things we control. + +However, most of the time we spend time and energy on things outside this circle. + +Worrying about things we don't even have the power or capability to affect in anyway. + +News. Sex lives of celebrities. What people think of us. The weather. Co-workers' personal lives. + +These are things outside of our "Circle of Influence", and will not likely be changed by us. + +So the idea of focusing on them mostly leads to waste of time. + +## Focusing on the Circle of Influence + +Yes I know, the weather, the economy, news and other things outside of my Circle of Influence will definitely have and effect on my quality of life. + +But since they are out of my hands, I try to focus on those that I can control. + +Taking into account the variables that will effect me, I navigate life by thinking, "What can I do with the resources I've been given?" + +I have skills, talents, relationships, tools. + +How can I use them to work toward my goal? + +Thinking too much about things that won't help me will just be a waste of time and energy. + +## One Practical Step + +When out commuting or hanging out in the mall, notice that a lot of people can't take their eyes of their phones. + +Maybe 80% plus of strangers you see will have their eyes locked, scrolling stuff on their phones. + +How many of them do you think are browsing social media feeds? + +The thing about browsing too much social media, is you're basically allowing other people to put content in front of your eyes. + +Many of which are outside your influence. + +One second you're looking at a horrifying crime scene, the next you're reading about your high school classmate's new baby. + +You have no control at all. + +When you spend most of your time aimlessly scrolling down this rabit hole, you will find yourself slowly being numb to things that are actually inside your Circle of Influence. + +One practical step is to limit others' concerns influence yours by not spending so much time on social media. + +Remember that the currency of the internet, the real "money" online, is not in your bank accounts, but the attention or time you give away. + +## Live Intentionally + +It all boils down to how much you want take control of your life. + +Don't let other people's life and concerns influence your thoughts, emotions, and energy. + +At least, not too much. + +Start checking what activities fill up your day and how much percentage of your time is given to each. + +Do you actually spend time on things inside your Circle of Influence? + +Or do you waste away your day on those that won't even give your life any additional value? diff --git a/assets/images/team-lab.jpg b/assets/images/team-lab.jpg new file mode 100644 index 0000000..fb17a5f Binary files /dev/null and b/assets/images/team-lab.jpg differ