What You're Looking For, You'll Usually See

“We’ve got to remember that we get whatever we focus on in life. If we keep focusing on what we don’t want, we’ll have more of it. The first step to creating any change is deciding what you do want so that you have something to move toward.”

— Tony Robbins, Awaken the Giant Within

In sports, business, and life, champions share one powerful belief: What we focus on expands.

Think for a moment about the vision you have for your life or your business.

When you focus on the things that fuel your passion, things that energize you and ignite your soul, you often attract the right people and the right circumstances to help you on your journey. It’s like the universe starts working in your favor.

On the flip side, when you focus solely on the obstacles or challenges you face, it can feel like those very obstacles multiply.

But here’s the key truth I want to share: I’m not suggesting you ignore your challenges or pretend they don’t exist. Absolutely not. What I’m inviting you to do is shift your perspective. Acknowledge both your empowering circumstances and your challenges. Embrace them as part of the process, knowing that whatever you focus on expands.

Think about it this way—have you ever thought about getting a new car?

Not just any car, but a specific make, model, and color that you’ve dreamed of.

Once you set your heart on it, haven’t you started noticing that car everywhere? On the road, in magazines, on TV—even online.

This is a fascinating phenomenon tied to your brain’s Reticular Activating System (RAS). It’s like the bouncer at a nightclub—ensuring your brain only processes what’s important to you. Your intentions, whether positive or negative, shape your focus, and the RAS filters the endless stream of stimuli around you to highlight exactly what aligns with your goals.

A wise mentor once said to me, “If you’re going to fantasize, you might as well win.”

And I believe this with all my heart—champions in life, business, and athletics know this secret. So, the question is: What will you focus on today to bring your dreams closer?

Here are three powerful ways to align your focus and manifest the life you desire:

1) Be Present

This is simple, but in today’s world of constant distractions, it’s often the hardest. Take a moment to slow down. Breathe deeply. Notice what’s around you, the sensations in your body, and the thoughts racing through your mind. Choose which ones will serve your vision and which ones need to be let go.

2) Be Intentional

From a place of presence, clarify what you truly want. Create a vivid mental picture of your desired outcome, and experience it as though it’s already here. Feel what it would feel like to have it. Don’t approach this from a place of lack or longing. Instead, focus on how this experience will enhance you—how it will help you serve others, grow, and live with greater purpose.

3) Be Proactive

Now that you’re clear on your intention and grounded in the present moment, it’s time to take action. Action doesn’t always have to be massive. In fact, small, consistent steps are often far more powerful. When you begin to take action, you’ll notice opportunities you hadn’t seen before. The change isn’t in the world around you—it’s in how you see it.

So, my friend, what’s your next step?

What action are you willing to take today to manifest your dreams and transform your life?

Remember, it all starts with you. When you change your perspective and focus on what you truly want, you’ll see it. It’s already on its way.

If you’re ready to explore how you can expand your focus and unlock your potential, I’d love to connect and support you in your journey. Together, we can make it happen.

Chris Natzke
Black Belt Leadership Speaking & Coaching