Dan Holmes
In the world of motorcycling, there’s a phenomenon known as “target fixation.” It’s a simple yet profound reality: as a rider, you’ll naturally steer toward whatever you’re focusing on. This can lead to skillful, sweeping turns if you focus on where you want to go. But if you fixate on an obstacle—say a pothole or a guardrail—you might end up heading straight toward it, no matter how much you wish to avoid it.
This principle doesn’t just apply to motorcycles; it speaks volumes about the way we approach life, relationships, and even our personal growth. What we focus on holds incredible power over us, guiding our decisions, shaping our identity, and ultimately directing our lives. Dr. Curt Thompson, a Christian psychiatrist and author, delves deeply into this concept, shedding light on how our focus and attention shape our minds and souls.
The Power of Focus: A Lesson from Motorcycling
On a motorcycle, your gaze determines your path. The same is true in life. Where we direct our attention, our thoughts, and our time shapes the direction of our hearts and ultimately, our destiny. Dr. Thompson explains that our minds and relationships are deeply interconnected. Whatever we’re focusing on—whether it’s our fears, our ambitions, or our shortcomings—has the power to mold who we are becoming.
Consider, for example, how a person focusing on past mistakes and regrets might steer their life in a loop of shame and insecurity. Conversely, someone who sets their sights on God’s love, grace, and purpose for them may find themselves more grounded and hopeful. Our mental “target fixation” can either steer us toward flourishing or toward harm, depending on what we choose to focus on.
Rewiring Our Focus
Dr. Thompson talks extensively about the power of attention in reshaping our neural pathways. This isn’t a mere self-help theory; it’s grounded in neuroscience. He explains that the brain is designed to change and adapt based on what we intentionally focus on. By consciously shifting our attention to what is true, beautiful, and hopeful, we can gradually redirect the pathways of our minds. Just as a motorcyclist learns to focus on where they want to go, we, too, can train our minds to focus on what brings life and healing.
For example, if we fixate on a particular problem in our relationship, our focus might become the problem itself, spiraling into frustration or resentment. But if we make a conscious effort to focus on our partner’s strengths, or on the shared goals that brought us together, we might start to see solutions rather than obstacles. It’s a powerful shift, one that invites us to steer our relationships toward restoration rather than conflict.
Practicing Healthy Target Fixation
Motorcyclists are trained to focus on the path ahead, especially when navigating sharp turns or challenging terrain. The same principle can guide us through life’s trials and uncertainties. By setting our sights on what we value and desire—faith, connection, resilience—we can steer our lives accordingly.
Dr. Thompson encourages us to orient ourselves toward God’s truths about us rather than the lies or fears that can dominate our thoughts. By “fixating” on truths like “I am loved,” “I am chosen,” and “I have purpose,” we train our minds to follow paths of peace and hope.
To apply this practically, consider creating daily reminders of what you want to focus on. This might look like a short prayer, a moment of gratitude, or simply pausing to reframe a challenging thought. When we do this, we’re not just redirecting our thoughts but also rewiring our brains, shaping new pathways toward joy and fulfillment.
What’s Your Focus?
The reality of target fixation teaches us that where we set our gaze is where we’ll likely end up. So, the question becomes: What are you focusing on? Are you fixating on fears, obstacles, and insecurities? Or are you steering toward hope, grace, and purpose?
In the end, as Dr. Thompson reminds us, “We become what we pay attention to.” By choosing our focus wisely, we’re not only directing our lives but shaping our very souls, guiding ourselves toward the life we truly desire and the person God calls us to be.
Let us learn from the motorcyclist’s wisdom. Let’s fix our gaze on what is good and let that focus be the guide that leads us home.
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