The Power of Focus
The brain isn’t under our control, but we can shape it
Focus is directed energy. We need this directed energy to veto the thoughts automatically produced by the brain.
Cravings happen because we have consciously or subconsciously associated the thing we crave with pleasure, or loss of pain. Over time, we have built a set of neurons in our brains that exist as a close community (fire and wire together). This is what automates our thoughts, which in turn directs our behavior.
And so we have collected behaviors that we don’t want. Now what?
My experiences and behavioral science knowledge point to the power of focus.
Once we know our thoughts and behavior, the pivotal moment of change starts by focusing on what we do want. For instance, if you crave a cigarette after a stressful time, then begin by focusing your attention on the advantages of not smoking. Begin there, regardless of whether you succeed or not. Over time, as your focus gets stronger, your automated thoughts that associate stress with cigarettes will weaken.
That is the idea—the practice, of course the more important.
The practice of focus.
