Focus & Following the Yellow Brick Road

I have a confession to share about my “blogging process”.

Deciding on a topic for these posts can be a challenge.

It’s not because I don’t have any ideas (thanks, #1 Ideation).

It’s usually because I have a hard time narrowing down to one idea (thanks, #24 Focus).

Often, the best idea to me is something so obscure that nobody would know what the heck I’m talking about. I have to remind myself that very few readers would be interested in thinking about a talent like Focus through some random sports or niche TV reference.

I’ll take that liberty on some other posts, but today I’m going to zoom way out in order to talk about Focus. Let’s consider something we’re all familiar with, The Wizard of Oz.

(Editor’s Note: I wrote this post months before the theatrical release of Wicked. I have not seen Wicked yet!)

The Wizard of Oz is a timeless tale. You’ve seen it, I’ve seen it, your little dog has seen it. So let’s go on a quick journey about Dorothy’s trip back to Kansas (There’s No Place Like Home) and how it’s a powerful metaphor for the CliftonStrengths talent of Focus.

Follow the Yellow Brick Road

We can all probably agree that Dorothy has unwavering determination. Despite all kinds of wacky distractions along the way her singular focus remains getting home. This dedicated sense of commitment is a hallmark of Focus. People with this strength excel at prioritizing their goals and relentlessly pursuing them.

Going back to the disclosure that Focus is my #24, I often get stuck on the prioritizing part, delaying my quest towards the relentless pursuit. Not Dorothy, though.

She not only has that little dog but she also has (as the kids say) that dog in her.

Remember, she’s part of a team. The Scarecrow needs a brain. The Tin Woodman needs a heart. The Cowardly lion wants courage. Dorothy is a good example of how we can be focused on our plan while also using “peripheral vision” to make sure we’re still taking in information and communicating with others on the team for group success.

Sometimes people associate those with Focus as having tunnel vision. Or you’re like that race horse with blinders on, keeping your focus straight ahead. I don’t think those stereotypes are true, as the true application of this talent requires looking ahead and all around us at the same time.

Just like the Yellow Brick Road, Focus provides a clear path towards achieving your goals.

Lessons for those with high Focus:

• Prioritize with passion: You will have setbacks. Identify what truly matters to you and minimize the distractions that pull you off course.
• Embrace challenges: The Yellow Brick Road wasn’t easy. Think of obstacles as opportunities to grow and learn.
• Maintain a clear vision: Hold onto your “home” – your ultimate goal. A clear vision with the end in mind fuels your Focus and keeps you motivated.

Whether you’re navigating your own yellow brick road or managing a team of goal-oriented individuals, the power of Focus is real. The Wicked Witch of the West will be no match for your team with Focus talents leading you home.