Today's thoughts influence tomorrow's outcomes.
Recently, I listened to an interview with author Ryan Holiday. During the interview, Ryan talked about two particular phrases that were incredibly meaningful to him – so much so that he tattooed them on his arm.
His tattoos read “The Obstacle Is The Way” and “Ego Is The Enemy.”
Interestingly enough, he had these tattoos BEFORE they became the titles of two of his best-selling books.
In the interview, Ryan said, “In almost every situation, those two reminders either help calm you down, prevent you from doing something stupid or boneheaded, or give you…a dose of optimism that it doesn’t really matter how bad it is…I can get through it.”
These two phrases guided Ryan through some of the most challenging parts of his life – a messy corporate breakup, an identity crisis, and navigating the problematic relationships that ensued.
Yet, because he kept these phrases front and center (literally), he remained grounded – and even thrived through these incredible challenges. He even went on to pen books bearing their namesakes so that others would discover the power he had found in them.
Because he kept them in focus, these two ideas shaped his mindset, career, and his life every single day.
Bruce Lee once said, “What you habitually think largely determines what you will ultimately become.”
I believe this.
What we focus on is what we become.
In light of this, what will you set your focus on? And how will you keep it in focus?
Is there a quote, idea, or phrase that you find particularly meaningful?
Is there a memory that you never want to forget?
Do you have a vivid picture of who you want to become someday?
Please write it down, and start focusing on it today.
It’s never too late to begin focusing on today what you hope for tomorrow.
You don’t necessarily need to get it tattooed on your forearm – but create a plan to keep it in the forefront of your life.
I'll say it again -- today's thoughts influence tomorrow's outcomes.
So think about what's best.
Who knows, you may even write a book about it one day!
