F.O.C.U.S. On Your Future

I can do all things...Phil 4:13

F.O.C.U.S.^© On Your Future

Over the course of my own academic career and professional life thus far, I have discovered that there are five principles that, at one point or another, played a role in my life and in others whom I have worked with over the years. These principles make up the acronym F.O.C.U.S.^©

The first principle is to Free Your Mind. Oftentimes you may have thoughts going on in your mind that manifests through frustration, disappointment or even self-doubt. If you are not where you desire to be at this point in your life, identify and become aware of any negative or distractive thought patterns you have and actively seek to Free Your Mind from them. As the saying goes, "as a man thinketh, so is he."

The next principle is to Orient Yourself to Excellence. Don't confuse this with perfection. They are NOT the same. In short, excellence means 'of good quality' and perfection means 'without flaw or error.' So excellence does not mean perfection. When it comes to whatever you goal or goals may be, strive for and orient yourself to excellence.

With the third principle, you should seek to Create a New Mindset. What this basically means is changing your attitude about yourself and others. You will never rise to your potential with an 'I can't ' or 'It's too hard' attitude. Not that these principles are sequential but creating a new mindset can be facilitated by adopting the first two principles.

The fourth principle is Use Your Resources. Don't go at it alone. Depending on what your goal is, it may be intimidating pursuing it all alone. You have resources all around you - family, friends, employers, teacher/professors and coaches. It's your responsibility to seek those people who are supportive of what you are trying to accomplish; not the other way around. Come out of your shell and enlist the aid of others (and information) in pursuit of your goals.

The final principle is (or should be) the driving force behind the other principles. Success is the Goal. Of course success is whatever the vision is that you have for your life. Don't look at it as and end point or destination. Instead, view it as a continuous journey throughout your life. It's just as important to enjoy the ride as it is arriving; and once you arrive, begin another journey.

These five principles are the building blocks to your future. Of course they are only as good as you practice them. More detailed information about these principles can be found in my booklet, 'F.O.C.U.S.© On Your Future: 5 Simple Principles to Reach Your Goals.' _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Herm Allen is an Academic & Career Coach residing in Clemson, SC. He has worked with students for over 16 years as a student development coordinator, career counselor, tutor coordinator and academic advisor. Herm has also taught career and study skills courses at the college level. He can be reached at herm@hermallencoaching.net. ©2007 Herm Allen