Blurry Vision

So... I have been lacking focus lately.  I have begun writing my next book, and my next after that, and the next after that.  All in all, I have started five books and taken them to varying degrees of completion, anywhere from half a page to six chapters.  I am excited about each one when I start and then, when I least expect it, I get what I believe is a brilliant idea and must give it the attention it deserves.

This is not a new problem for me.  In fact, it is part of my personality make-up.  I am an "ENFP" if I take the Myers-Briggs or Kiersey tests, or a "High I" in another test, or a "Sanguine" in another.  Regardless of the specific test I still score the same way.  In one particular test I was off the charts in the extroverted category.  I always agree with the test results and, in general, I like how I am wired.  But then, there are those pesky negatives that I must own in my make-up and I would really love to separate myself from them.

If you have ever taken a personality test to see how you are wired then you can appreciate the positive and try to understand the negative characteristics of what makes you "tick."  If you have never taken one of these tests I urge you to do so... it is very encouraging to know who you are and also know you are not abnormal.  It can also be discouraging to know that those things you are annoyed with in yourself may not be things you can easily change.

If I read the best parts of my personality description I think I am wonderful.   I wish it ended with the good stuff.  Sadly, there are the negatives and they are just as bold as the positives.  I look over the list and realize I have each weakness within me and some are quite dominant.

Lack of focus is a very strong one for me.  It applies to my professional life as well as personal relationships.  I love people and thoroughly enjoy spending time with others.  However, I tend to be one of those annoying friends who lack follow-through.

"We need to get together soon," I often say.  Or, "I should really call <insert name of friend or family member here> and let him/her know I am thinking about him/her."  Or, and this one happens very frequently, "It would be great fun to do <insert fun activity with specific person>.  I know he/she would just love that!"

And that's typically as far as it gets.  I am the master of good intentions with zero follow-through.

Interestingly (to me anyway), writing is a perfect career path for someone with my personality make-up.  It allows me to have an abundance of experiences, keeps my attention and also draws out my intuitive/perceptive strengths.  The only problem, for someone who lacks focus and follow-through, I need to constantly work at my self-discipline or be left with a slew of incomplete books.

A good friend who shares my personality type shared this typical prayer style for the ENFP:
Lord, help me to keep my mind on one thing at a time.  And help me to... oooh Look,  a bird... focus on what's... hello little bird... important.

Alas, it is very true.  I am easily distracted.  While writing this blog post I took no less than four breaks because something caught my attention.  I better close it now since something exciting is taking place outside my window.