Welcome to the Determined to Dance podcast with your host, Jennifer Hallmark. The world would have us march to its chaotic beat but God invites us to dance in His will and His way. Let’s take a moment to be energized, refreshed, and motivated to face the day, one spin and twirl at a time.

Today’s episode, “How Distraction Diminishes the Dance,” looks at the battle we fight to keep focused as we dance with God in His will and way. Taking concrete steps can help us move forward and live life to the fullest. Even in the midst of distraction.

Show Notes: How Distraction Diminishes the Dance

If you look at the year 2020 in my book, one word defining that unsettled year would be distraction. Circumstances changed as many people moved to virtual schooling, Zoom meetings, work at home, and daily changes in our states and nation.

The ground beneath my feet grew shaky, unsteady in areas of my own life and at times I wanted to crawl under the refreshment table at the dance and hide. Hiding and meticulous cleaning and organizing are my go-to safe places when life is less than I want.

2021 has been more of the same. I can now see more light at the end of the tunnel but much is still evolving around me. Add in disappointments in my career, shifts in the family, and limited time for working on my fiction and I’m wallowing in distraction. My focus is out the window at times and I struggle to remember what I’m supposed to be doing and when I should be doing it.

Anyone else understand what I mean? I’m sure you do. We all want to keep moving forward, our eyes on the prize, and our steps sure. So, what should we do to regain focus and kick distraction out the door? I found a few ways to help my waning attention span.

First, I go back to my journal/planner/calendar. Right before bedtime, I think about the next day, and make a few notes on the important tasks I need to focus on. I also notice doctor appointments, taxi service for my grandchildren, and general housework. Writing it down helps me to not only plan but remember. I chart specific events in the Google calendar and make comments in my journal. My day runs smoother when I have a plan instead of relying on my memory to keep me on track.

Next, I schedule the important tasks at specific times. I block out time to write, exercise, do housework, or shop. Then I use the time wisely which leads to what I do next.

Limit social media and games. When I’m distracted and losing focus, I can easily pick up my phone and play solitaire or Township for hours, eating loads of sugar and carbs while I’m at it. It’s another form of hiding for me. When I limit these activities, my focus returns, and I can avoid procrastination.

Last but not least, I pray. As distraction mounts, I need more time with God, talking life through. He alone has blessed me with a plan and purpose and only He can place my feet on the right path. I’ve learned I can never spend too much time with God, discussing where I am and the help I so often need. Prayer helps to “center” me and move distraction far away.

Recently, my family and I spent time at the beach, a much-needed vacation. As I lay in the sun, I talked to God, whining about how unsteady and unsettled I’ve felt for a while now. He patiently listened.  In my heart, I felt him saying that it was okay. He still held me and the changes I’m going through are necessary for the upcoming season. I drew in a deep breath. Necessary. If what God is doing is necessary for forward progress, I need to quit resisting and rest in Him.

I can’t see the future but God is already there. So, I’ll follow the above ways to fight distraction and limit what I can. Then I’ll move forward and take my place once again on the dance floor, holding tightly to the hand of God.

Everyone needs time and practice to embrace a new season and I’m no exception. Neither are you. So, let’s step out together and enjoy life to the full.

Let’s pray: Father God,