BE FOCUSED AND FLEXIBLE

The title may initially appear paradoxical: how can you be focused and flexible at the same time? The truth is, to bring in balance, ‘focus’ and ‘flexibility’ ought to go hand-in-hand.

While focus is about ‘concentrating attention or energy on something’, flexibility is about ‘being responsive to change’.

For example, if John wants to construct a new house, he will take time to plan its design. He is now focused on building it as per the design. However he is also flexible to slightly alter the design for the sake of meeting the cost.

The Scripture talks about both focus and flexibility. Check out what apostle Paul says about focus: “…I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race…” (Philippians 3:13,14 NLT). Connect this passage with what God says about flexibility: “…I prefer a flexible heart to an inflexible ritual…” (Matthew 12:7 MSG).

In other words, God loves to see us focused on doing what we are called to do. At the same time, He doesn’t want us to be inflexible, religious and ritualistic about it, losing freshness and passion that go with the call.

How do you work this out?

1. Embrace consistency for growth: If you want to grow, consistency is an essential key. Inconsistency wrecks growth.

2. Embrace change for improvement: If you want to improve, change is an essential key. Resistance stains improvement.

3. Embrace purpose and passion: Never take one and omit the other. The two function like the wings of a bird. Incorporate both into your life and work. And you will fly high!

Remember: it takes focus and flexibility to maintain 2012 afresh.