Remember before we had Spotify, satellite radio, or podcasts? Back when we had less than 1,000 channels “on-demand*” We would have to “scan” or “search” up and down the radio dials or get up and change the channels manually?
Admit it…some of you remember life before “remote controls,” don’t you?
With a digital signal or cable connection, we knew exactly where to tune in to get a great connection. But in between the channels, there’s just static. Lots of buzz…but nothing really to listen to. You’re looking for something to listen to but all you hear is the noise of static. (crackle…hiss….buzz)
What did you do when you were overwhelmed by the static? How could you filter the noise?
Is it possible to reset your ears (and mind) to a new station? Can you refocus on a clear path forward?
The world is too noisy. I can’t hear myself
Jessica Collins
I was golfing this weekend and was excited to play. The warm-up session was good and my energy was high. Shortly after teeing off though, I started to think about anything but golf. I kept trying to refocus on my swing thoughts and surroundings, but I was stuck in the static.
~ My good friend’s son was in the hospital with undiagnosed issues. (buzzzzzzzzzz)
~ I needed to prepare for a new seller conversation later that day. (hmmmmmmmm)
~ My schedule for the next few weeks is non-stop…and did I have everything in place to be successful? (click…click…click…click)
No matter how hard I tried to tune in to my golf game, I couldn’t do it. Every good shot was followed by three or four bad shots.
I walked in after 9 holes.
I didn’t quit. I just decided that I needed to tune out the static and tune in to what I needed to hear.
I texted my buddy to check on his son. I finalized some details for my meeting with the Seller. I confirmed a few travel plans and reviewed some outstanding items on my schedule. I went and connected with good friends over a few beers and some fun stories.
I reminded myself how important it is to build relationships, solve problems, and have fun.
A Clear Signal
Things seem to be back “in tune.” I hear the music playing and I’m listening to the words. Suddenly, just like that, everything sounds better.
If you’re hearing a little more static than you’re used to, maybe it’s time to turn off the radio, unplug the TV, or restart your phone for a second. Maybe it’s time to call an audible?
Sometimes we think the computer engineers make those reboot sessions seem longer than they really are. Maybe they are exactly as long as they need to be. Reboot your mind the same way you reboot your laptop or phone.
Simply hit CTRL-ALT-DELETE.
Or, maybe it should be hit BR – SP – HF?
It’s the best way I know to get away from the static and get back to a clear signal.
*Yes – we used to have only AF/FM radios and 3 channels on the TV (no one counted PBS…even though that’s where we got Sesame Street, the Electric Company, and Zoom)