It’s easy to think of focus as just consciously putting more energy or time into something. It is, in a way, but without ignoring everything that gets in the way, it’s nearly impossible.

That’s why focusing is so hard. If it was just caring more about something without having to compromise or to let go, it would be really easy.

On the contrary, ignoring involves putting things aside, sometimes irritating a few people and making though choices as to what matters and what deserves your time.

So before trying too hard to focus on one thing, it may be a better idea to take a step back and define what has to be left out, what has to be ignored, what is eating all your time and energy.

The cost of ignoring may vary — sometimes it’s money and sometimes it’s relationships — but then focus just seems to happen.