What we focus on expands.
This idea is rooted in attention density, the concept that the more we focus our attention on something, the stronger the neural pathways associated with it become in our brain.
When we repeatedly bring awareness to something, it begins to shape how we see and experience the world. Mary Oliver once wrote, “To pay attention, this is our endless and proper work.”
As our attention deepens, gratitude expands, and wonder multiplies. Some call it whimsy, others neuroscience, but either way, it reminds us that the more we notice, the more alive both the world and we become.
Quote
"Do not ask your children to strive for extraordinary lives. Such striving may seem admirable, but it is the way of foolishness. Help them instead to find the wonder and the marvel of an ordinary life. Show them the joy of tasting tomatoes, apples and pears. Show them how to cry when pets and people die. Show them the infinite pleasure in the touch of a hand. And make the ordinary come alive for them. The extraordinary will take care of itself."
—William Martin
Question
What are three small, everyday moments you’ve recently noticed that sparked a sense of wonder or gratitude? And how might you expand your attention to invite more of these moments into this day?
Poem
Thanks for reading,
Lance Odegard
unstucking.co
Hi there! 👋 My name’s Lance - I’m a writer, coach, and learning designer from Vancouver BC, Canada. In my work as a professional certified coach, I help people create the future. I truly believe that the future is made by the conversations we can and cannot have. If you want to know more about my practice or how we could work together, drop me a line. It’d be great to meet you. Thanks for stopping by.
Yes and Amen. And thanks for the poem.