Improving Mental Focus and Clarity

Every boy scout knows that focusing the sun’s rays through a clear magnifying glass can generate enough heat to start a fire. With a single cloud in the right place or a shadow cast on the lens, that intensity disappears. Similarly, combining the ability to focus the mind and maintain clarity of thought makes the mind a powerful instrument. The ability to concentrate the mind’s energies helps us succeed in the workplace and our personal growth. Developing a strong mind is a slow process that takes time and effort. It is equally important to guard against negative thoughts and emotions, which deplete the mind. 

There are two forces in the mind: reasoning and emotion. Both are required, and those who can strike a balance lead happy, productive lives. Controlling and channeling emotions, the dominant force in the mind conserves the mind’s energies and helps us tap into logic and reason. There are just as many positive emotions as negative ones, both of which serve a purpose. 

Negative emotions are remnants of the evolutionary process. Anger, for example, brings to the surface primitive urges such as aggression and the will to fight, which are essential to survival in the wild. Anger impairs our decision-making skills, making us vulnerable to poor judgment. Those who can channel their negative emotions, such as anger, into a passion for success fare better.

On the other hand, positive emotions, like love, joy, serenity, and contentment, promote inclusivity and cooperation, which are essential to relationship building.  While negative emotions rapidly deplete our mental energy, positive emotions add to our mental energy stores. 

It is essential to have a certain minimum amount of mental energy to sustain mental focus and have clarity of thought. Positive emotions such as joy, gratitude, hope, and inspiration help provide that foundation by continually replenishing the mind’s energy stores. 

A depleted mind feels dull, heavy and prone to depressive thoughts. In contrast, a mind full of energy feels almost imperceptible. If you have ever felt like you were walking on a cloud or felt invincible, the mind’s energies were likely at their peak. 

We can help sustain the flow of positive emotions while guarding against the dangers of negative emotions by funneling thoughts through the lens of perspective. Like a large rock in the middle of a river that remains stationary irrespective of how rapid or calm the flow of water is, maintaining the proper perspective helps deal with any thought that crosses the mind. Just as water washes off the rock’s surface, negative emotions will not become part of our personality if we can maintain a distance from the mind and thoughts. This process, also known as awareness, helps us wield the mind as an instrument rather than succumbing to the whims and fancies of our thoughts. The ability to focus and maintain clarity of thought follows. Creative problem solvers, innovators, leaders, and just about anyone who adds value to the world have those traits.