The Power of Focus: Embracing Commitment and Saying ‘No’
Most of us recognize the importance of focus in achieving a specific goal. It’s said that innovative entrepreneur Steve Jobs once remarked, “Focus is about saying ‘no’.” What does this mean? Jobs believed that to concentrate on any given task, we must firmly say ‘no’ to anything that doesn’t support the task’s completion. By prioritizing what truly matters, it becomes a powerful tool that enables progress.
Fostering Focus in Education: Encouraging Purposeful Decision-Making
Focus is vital for success, and that’s one reason we encourage our students to develop it. Toni Winder, our mentor this week, finds this concept particularly fascinating. She appreciates that students begin the semester with a written Life Vision, which helps them make choices that align with their goals. When something doesn’t align with their vision, they can confidently pass on it, knowing it’s a ‘no.’ This structured approach to focus empowers students to move forward with clarity.
A Passion for Education: Toni’s Dedication to Learning and Connection
Teaching runs in Toni’s blood; with both parents as educators, she chose to become a teacher almost twenty years ago. Her passion for learning and the connections she forms with students are evident in the students’ reactions. “She wasn’t just sharing information with us; she was sharing emotions, and I really connected with that,” says Henrique, a student from Brazil. Toni’s unique approach resonates with our students, making each lesson a memorable experience.
Empowering Students with Focused Learning and Real-World Skills
Toni’s talents are a perfect match for our campus. She loves both teaching and volunteering and feels Cumorah Academy uniquely prepares students for the job market. As a teacher, Toni values timeless skills like communication, which help students recognize their potential. During her time on campus, she taught delegation and teamwork, key areas for professional and personal growth. “Using my strengths alongside others’ strengths is like magic,” she says. This collaborative focus fosters incredible outcomes for students, both short- and long-term. As student Daniel from Portugal observes, “When we identify and leverage each other’s strengths, we boost team morale and enhance performance.”
Toni’s enthusiasm for education highlights the uniqueness of Cumorah Academy’s approach compared to traditional four-year programs. She notes that students bring more energy, knowing they only have three months to maximize their experience. This limited timeframe amplifies their focus on assignments, empowering them to concentrate on what matters most. Toni shares Cumorah’s commitment to nurturing young adults, believing that true focus means prioritizing what has the most impact—a lesson that our students have embraced wholeheartedly.
Watch Toni’s testimonial in the clip below:
Written by Fernando L. Ferreira Jr.
Photos by Natalia Lopez
Supervision by Kamila Uberto Fullmer
