I’ve been running at the Greenway lately.  I love running there because it’s beautiful.  Something about being in nature, surrounded by trees, brings me in God’s presence every time.  Another thing that is great about the Greenway is, the trail has mile markers so I know exactly how far to run.  Some sections of the trail are paved, some have bridges and other sections are dirt and gravel.  I have a history of falling when I run :), so it’s very important for me to keep my focus on what’s in front of me.  The last time I became one with the pavement was all because of a tiny little woodchip that my foot landed on and I lost my balance.  So, I have developed a slight fear about falling while running.  What is interesting to me is that every time I venture on the Greenway I say to myself, “Focus, keep your eye on the path in front of you.”  But somehow I manage to make eye contact with people who pass me and smile or say hi.  After they pass by I start thinking about my one second encounter with them and make an opinion.  For example, I might think that person was friendly or that person, not so much.  Then there are those other people who don’t even give me a glance.  It’s like they are in their own world and nothing is going to get in the way of their focus.  Honestly, lately I’ve been envying that kind of focus when I’m out there running.  Why in the world do I even give it a second thought when I’m out there who is friendly and who is not?  And to take it a step further I’ve even been comparing my athletic skills to others out there as well.  And goodness knows, I am no stellar athlete so why even go there?

So I asked myself today, what would I say to a client who is having a hard time staying focused?  When coaching my clients I would challenge and direct them to expand awareness of their potential in this situation.  I would encourage them to look at their strengths and determination in continuing to run even though they have a history of taking a fall.  And I would ask them what would they do differently next time before taking a run on the Greenway to get their mind focused on the path that is in front of them.  Finally, I would have the privilege of hearing them have that powerful breakthrough or “aha” moment of self-awareness.  And this my friends is what coaching is all about.  Asking the right questions to help an individual get past their obstacles and experience success.  So I must ask, what are you focusing on today?