In Part One, we looked at the problem of distraction and how it can get us in trouble with our boss, coworkers, professor/teacher, spouse, friends, etc.

We considered what makes our minds wander:

  • External distractions: Noises, something funny happening, someone interrupting to talk to us, something interesting appearing in our line of vision, a commotion, etc.
  • Internal distractions:

–Worry and anxiety—related to potential or current issues

–Fear—over real and/or perceived threats

–Selfish ambition—pondering how to get that promotion, get known,

get popular, get rich, etc.

–Good intentions—considering who and how to help, good plans, etc.

–Relationships– both positive and negative thoughts about them

–Physical pain—it’s hard to concentrate with a headache or any ache.

–Miscellaneous (that catch-all category of distracting thoughts)

With all of these and more calling our minds from every direction, how can we keep our mind on: What someone is saying?  On an important task?  On something we’re trying to create?  On planning? On anything?

Here’s some things I’ve found that work:  (Feel free to add your own suggestions in a comment)

  • Quiet our hearts— marinate in and meditate on God’s Word—verses that bring peace to our hearts and assurance to our minds. For ex., Ps. 91:1-2—“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’”
  • Quiet our environment—as much as possible—Turn off all the rings, pings, and dings on our electronic devices. As for the “sings”—loud music and noises from outside that we can’t stop—get as far away from them as possible, and use “white noise” (instrumental music, a fan, etc.) to cover them.
  • Discipline our minds—Tune out whatever external or internal noises try to gain entry and take over our minds. Examine thoughts that enter, decide if they belong there, and choose to reject them if they don’t. “…whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” (Phil. 4:8).  If it doesn’t fit in this list, chuck it out!  And, “…take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” (2 Cor. 10:5)
  • Deal with what we have to—but not indefinitely—When children, spouses, bosses, issues, require our immediate attention—take care of them. Don’t just think about them and what a bother they are! Then, go right back to whatever we needed to focus on before.
  • Delegate—When we think of something that needs to be done, we can: 1)Realize we’re not indispensable and get help; 2)Write it down to do later and get it out of our minds now.
  • Prioritize—rank our concerns in order of importance and necessity (may include deadlines). Then focus on each one, in order, leaving the rest ‘til later.

All of these take effort. Minds naturally wander. Just like muscles naturally grow weak.  Just as it takes physical exercise to build physical muscles, it takes mental and spiritual “exercise” to build our focus-“muscles”.

So, how much do we want it?  What is minding our minds worth to us?  Or would we rather keep letting them wander and miss out on the growth, success, and good relationships that “staying tuned-in” has to offer?  It’s up to us.