Catch the Spirit.

Staying on Task. Going for your Dreams in the NYC

Walking through Manhattan, busy streets, people moving quickly, buildings on top of buildings filled with art, business, beauty, fashion, and God only knows what else. Passing through places like Brooklyn and Queens admiring the murals, small businesses, and the various cultures who all had a hand in building these boroughs. Experiencing these wanders first-hand, how can you NOT get inspired to want something for yourself?
 
We all know that NYC is a hustle city. 
You must hustle to survive financially, spiritually, and even emotionally during the MTA mishaps, awkward encounters with people, and the weather that will leave you shell shocked if you come from the south.

The spirit of NYC ignites a fire within the dreamers who relocate here looking for more opportunities or to start over. I don’t see how anyone could move here just to be here. There’s always another door to knock on, and more pavement to pound. However, it doesn’t come easy. That’s where the hustle has to kick into over drive.

Staying the course.
Now, it is easy to come here and get caught up in the nightlife, people, and events. If you’re not careful, you can lose focus. This is why it is imperative to always have a reminder of why you came here in the first place. Enjoy the town but understand that while you're sleeping, out partying, or just getting taken away from the views, there are thousands more who are moving past you to get things done.

Here’s a few tidbits I’ve picked up on how to stay focused within a city that has so much going on:

• Each day, do at least three things towards your dreams. Of course, you can strive to do more but at least get in three tasks that doesn't involve working for someone else.
• Find a side hustle to make more money to keep up with the cost of living and/or invest in your dreams. In addition, budget your funds for investing in your dreams. (Make sure your bills are paid though)
• Celebrate the small wins. Those are motivation! Downplaying the moves and wins accomplished will only lead to a decline in your work ethic. This will result in you giving up. Don’t allow that to happen. Be proud of yourself for everything big and small each step counts!
• You don't have to post about the moves being made. Yes, we live in a world where it's hard to not let people know what you're doing every day, but remember that it’s not a requirement. It’s not our jobs to convince others who are afraid to take risks that we are succeeding in our faith moves.
• Do a self-assessment check. Figure out what you’re doing right and what you can change.
• Veering of task (that’s normal)? Don’t dwell on that. We all fall off the wagon but it’s all about getting back in the game and keeping it moving.
• Claim it! Get you some positive affirmations and stick with them daily.
• Enjoy the spirit of the city. Walk around, look around, and be glad that you’re among the fold of dreamers and doers who are making things happen.

What do you do to stay focused? Comment below!

The Blakk Dahlia (E. Alexcina Brown) is a New York City author/blogger from Macon, GA. Recently, she released the book series, the Heartbreak Diaries outlining different perspectives of heartbreak. The Dahlia Diaries is a lifestyle blog penned by The Blakk Dahlia, sharing her story in NYC along with life lessons and tips she's learned in her journey.