The Bagel Lesson: Why Focus Trumps Obstacles

Ever been so focused on something that the obstacles just fade away? I was reminded of this feeling recently…

I came across a reel from Simon Sinek where he shared a story about going for a run with a friend. Afterward, they saw organizers handing out bagels to the runners. Both Simon and his friend wanted one, but when his friend saw the long line and crowd, he hesitated. He was ready to walk away. Simon? He was laser-focused on getting that bagel—nothing else mattered.

This brought me to a recent experience with my parents. They were determined to visit the Mahakumbh, despite the expected crowds and transportation hurdles. My brother and I, were concerned about the traffic, ticket issues, and accommodation. We tried to convince them to stay back—warned about long walks, crowded roads, and the chaos of it all. But my father? He was unwavering. He and my mother were going, and they’d figure out the rest.

Eventually, we relented. The surprising part? Everything fell into place. They found a great company with our near ones for a road travel, and though the 11-hour journey turned into 24, they made it to Mahakumbh, got a place to stay, and—most importantly—took their dip in the Sangam.

It’s interesting how things align when one stays focused. The obstacles didn’t disappear, but they became part of the journey. It wasn’t about avoiding the struggles— it was about staying focused on the goal, even when the obstacles overwhelm us.”

If one is reading this while navigating their own challenges, perhaps this story may resonate.. Maybe it’s a reminder: Sometimes, the harder the journey, the more fulfilling the destination.