The movie, The Walk, was just released. It is about Philippe Petit’s high wire walk between the Twin Towers 40 years ago.
I saw him interviewed and he discussed what it takes to accomplish a feat like that. “Open focus” is what is necessary. He described it as the ability to focus so narrowly in front of you that you block out the peripheral things. Once you’ve done that, you also need to simultaneously have awareness of your surroundings.
Dancers and skaters incorporate the technique of spotting to stay focused. They spot an object in front of them before they spin so they won’t fall and lose their balance. After the spin is completed, they spot the same place. Returning their eyes to the spot allows them to black out distractions and stay standing.
We can apply these focus techniques in our daily life. many of us feel we are spinning from overwhelm or walking a fine line or tight wire in our work.
Giving presentations, having challenging conversations, making difficult decisions and balancing family commitments create these feelings.
One way to achieve success is to focus on what is in front of you and remove the noise. Staying present and not worrying about the past or the future will help you stay balanced.
When you develop “open focus,” spot what’s important and then keep your eye on it, you’ll be more likely to stand up confidently and less likely to fall.
See Petit’s walk across the Twin Towers below.