How to Lead in a World of DistractionSample

Most of us would agree that there are more distractions in our world today than ever before. Advertising, entertainment, and the Internet can consume our attention at work and at home. I know I’m easily distracted. And I’m not the only one. Consider that we have laws to prevent us from driving cars and looking at our phones at the same time. That’s ridiculous! No one should have to tell us that’s a bad idea.

But our distractions are symptoms of a deeper problem. 

The distractions in my life have cost me a lot. Living a distracted lifestyle isn’t sustainable. Who knows what opportunities I’ve missed because I was caught up in the trappings of technology and our media-saturated, 24/7 consumer culture? They may seem harmless, but every notification alert, mouse click, Reddit thread, or Netflix show is distracting me from something. And usually that something is more important—more consequential.

I’m over the phrase “living your best life,” but the truth is our distractions prevent us from becoming better versions of ourselves. They stunt our growth as leaders and as people.

Matthew 4:1–11 tells us that after 40 days of fasting in the wilderness, Jesus was tempted by the devil. The enemy offered him food, proof of God’s love, and earthly power. Those things must have sounded pretty good after 40 days of physical, mental, and spiritual discipline. But Jesus recognized they were distractions from his mission. What they offered paled in comparison to what God promised.

So, what’s distracting you? What’s currently taking up too much of your time and preventing you from being the leader—the person—God wants you to be?