I’ve always wondered why it’s been hard for me to concentrate. From a young age, I have always been easily distracted, and even going into adulthood, my mind was always bouncing around from one thought to another.

It started in nursery school.

I was always looking around during class to find something more interesting. I hated taking naps. My need for entertainment and attention far outweighed my need for a stupid nap.

I knew I was expected to behave, but my mind always seemed to wander.  I was the class clown, always seeking ways to liven my surroundings. My teachers were not impressed.

In Campfire Girls, I couldn’t pay attention to the den leader. I was too busy focusing on the music playing in the background. I remember being scolded by her because of my behavior. To this day, I still remember the song that was playing.

Church was always a snore. Even now, when I feel compelled to go, I always look around at the people. Who are they? Are they happy? What do they do for a living?

In college, I took classes that helped me improve my GPA. My sports and music classes kept me afloat because I often daydreamed during those academic lectures.

When I was working, in a very high-pressure career in advertising sales, the incessant phone calls made me feel like I was in a spin painting with all the tasks that were demanded of me.

I couldn’t prioritize and complete anything without being distracted by another phone call that needed my immediate attention.

I managed to survive over the years, but I had to focus to keep my job. My livelihood depended on it.  But I was scattered and unable to manage stress so I usually got laid off after a few years. I would start a new job with gusto and impress my bosses, but it was only a matter of time before I started to fall apart and lose focus.

My wife and I have spent so much money on traveling over the years, but quite frankly all those escorted tours completely bored me.

I couldn’t concentrate on the tour guide, and I always found out much more interesting to wander off and take photos.

When I finally retired from publishing, I realized that my temperament was more suited to something slower and less stressful. I suspect copyrighting might’ve been a better fit for me because I could focus on one project with fewer distractions.

I know myself better now and realize that it’s OK to be easily distracted. Maybe that’s part of being a creative person.

My pace is slower now, so once I’m committed to a project, I am pretty intent on finishing it even if I get a little distracted along the way. I return from the distraction, refreshed and ready to tackle the chore once again.

However, I’m careful to avoid committing to several simultaneous assignments because I know it will stress me out, and I will feel scattered and disorganized.

I’m glad I finally found the recipe that works well for me.