Dear Current Scholars,

As an alumnus of the esteemed sponsorship program offered by the co-operative bank of Kenya, I want to share my thoughts on a crucial element that has guided me on my journey to success – the power of focus.

The journey of a beneficiary is filled with opportunities and challenges, and it is your ability to maintain unwavering focus that will ultimately determine your success.

Focus is more than just concentrating on a task; it is about channeling your energy and attention toward a specific goal or objective. In a world where distractions are aplenty, mastering the art of focus can be a game-changer. Here are a few key insights I’ve gained along my own path:

1. Clarity of Purpose: The first step to harnessing the power of focus is to have a clear understanding of what you wish to achieve, both short term and long term. When you have a well-defined purpose, it becomes easier to prioritize your efforts and stay on track.
2. Prioritize and eliminate distractions: It’s essential to prioritize your tasks and allocate your time wisely. Distractions are abundant. It is easy for other things to steal your attention, whether it is social media, events or relationships.Sponsorship often comes with various responsibilities, from maintaining academic excellence, to engaging in community service. I recommend that you should identify what matters most to you and direct your focus accordingly.
3. Break Tasks into Manageable Steps: Large, daunting goals can be overwhelming. To stay focused, break them down into smaller, manageable tasks.This not only makes your objectives more achievable but also provides a sense of accomplishment as you complete each step. Consider implementing productivity tools to help you stay on track.
4. Be Persistent: Challenges and setbacks are part of any journey. What will set you apart is your ability your persistence. Remember, failures are opportunities to learn and grow.
5. Seek Support: Don’t be afraid to seek support from mentors, tutors, and fellow scholars. They can offer invaluable guidance and be great companions in your journey.
6. Celebrate Your Progress: As you make progress, take the time to celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Recognizing your accomplishments will keep you motivated and committed to your journey.

Embrace the power of focus, and let it guide you towards realizing your dreams. Stay committed, stay driven, and let your focus be the beacon of light that illuminates your path to success.

Thomas Ngugi, Quantity surveyor at Ark Construction Limited.