During a recent nationally televised college football quarterfinal game, two outstanding teams were at a critical point of the game when a player turned his focus to one side of the field which allowed his opponent side to score and the other team to eventually win. As commentators diagramed what transpired, they observed that the play’s outcome was the result of diverted attention. Looking the wrong way made all the difference.

Just like in the football game, there is so much going on in life, so much information, so many distractions. How do we know where to put our focus long term, today, and right now? How grateful we should be for a prophet who can help us have a clearer vision as we navigate through the world we live in, and as we evaluate what we need to do to improve.

1. “Think Celestial.” This is an overarching principle that can help eliminate many
distractions and less-worthy goals and decisions.

2. Focus on the Savior. “The joy we feel has little to do with the circumstances of our lives and everything to do with the focus of our lives.” He is the source of light and truth and peace.

3. “Choose to do the spiritual work required to enjoy the gift of the Holy Ghost and hear the voice of the Spirit more frequently and more clearly.” The Spirit can help us determine what to focus on today as well as in the long term.

4. “Repenting is the key to progress.” Be grateful for the gift of repentance because we are not perfect, but through repentance we can sharpen our focus.

As we begin a new year, may we each strive to focus on those things that will bring us closer to the Savior and to experience His joy.
 
Message provided by: Sister Janet Eggers (Relief Society)