The Power of Focus: What a Golden Retriever Taught Me About Being In The Moment

This morning, I was at my client site, a timber frame company nestled in the beautiful rolling hills and forest of Brown County, Indiana. As the morning progressed, reviewing operational and project timelines and plans, we took a few breaks to clear our heads, and that’s when Elon—their rambunctious, happy, and bouncing 2-year-old golden retriever—came into the picture.

During one of our breaks, we headed outside, taking turns throwing a green tennis ball for Elon. What struck me was how in the moment he was, every single time. No matter how many times the ball was tossed, Elon’s focus never wavered. Each throw was the most important, the only one that existed for him. His joy, his energy, and his complete presence inspired me to think about being in the moment.

If Elon were to write an article about his approach to catching a tennis ball and fully living in the present, here is what I think he would say to all of us humans.

1. The Art of Focus

When you throw that ball, my world narrows. There are no distractions—no thoughts about my next meal or whether I’ll get belly rubs later. It’s just me and the ball, the wind on my face, and the sound of your laughter. That’s pure focus. That’s being present.

In your world, focus might look different. It could be a conversation, a project, or even taking a moment for yourself. But the principle is the same: be all in. Don’t split your attention between now and what’s next. Chase that ball like it’s the only thing that exists, and you’ll find joy in the journey.

2. Letting Go of What’s Out of Reach

Sometimes the ball bounces funny, takes a weird hop, or gets lost under the couch. Do I stress about it? No. I move on because I know there will be another ball, another throw, another chance. Life will keep throwing opportunities your way—you just have to be ready when they come.

Stop worrying about the ones you missed. They’re gone, buried like a bone you’ll never find again. Focus on the next toss. Because trust me, it’s coming.

3. Celebrate the Catch

When I catch that ball, the feeling is everything—joy, triumph, purpose. But here’s the secret: the moment you catch your “ball,” no matter what it is, you have to celebrate. Wag your tail. Run back proudly. Drop it at the feet of life and say, “Look, I did it!”

In your world, that might mean acknowledging your wins, even the small ones. Don't let success pass by without celebration. Every catch is a moment worth savoring. Be proud of yourself in the here and now.

4. Rest Between Throws

After a good run, I’ll drop the ball at your feet, panting happily, and lie down for a moment. This is important: I rest. You can’t chase every ball without catching your breath. Rest is part of the game too. So when you’re not chasing the ball of your dreams or your next big goal, take time to rest, recharge, and appreciate where you are.

5. Stay Joyfully Expectant

The greatest part of chasing a tennis ball? The anticipation. The sheer joy of knowing that at any moment, you’ll hear the sound of that ball leaving your hand, and boom—adventure awaits! I don’t know when you’ll throw it, but I know you will. And that’s enough to keep my tail wagging.

In life, stay excited about the unknown. You don’t know when your next opportunity, breakthrough, or moment of clarity will come, but it will. And if you live with that joyful expectation, each day feels full of potential. Each day feels like a game.

6. Be Grateful for the Simple Things

I know it might seem like just a tennis ball to you. But to me? It’s magic. It’s the best part of my day. The simple things in life—those moments of pure connection and joy—are what make it all worthwhile. Be grateful for them. They’re easy to overlook when you’re chasing the next big thing, but trust me, the magic is in the small stuff. A wagging tail, a belly rub, a ball in the air.

So here’s my advice from Elon, chase your goals like going after a tennis ball. Be focused, joyful, and ready for anything. Don’t dwell on the misses—another throw is coming. Celebrate your wins, and take time to rest in between. And above all, find joy in the chase.

Because the truth is, it’s not about how many balls you catch. It’s about the fun you have running after them. ??