This morning I took a walk to have some quiet time—to focus on the week, reflect on my personal mission and vision, think about True Impact’s mission, and revisit the intentions I set for the week.

There’s a two-mile loop near my house that I really enjoy. Lately, I’ve been using the single track made of sand and dirt instead of the concrete trail. It’s less crowded and feels more peaceful. During the warmer months, it’s not unusual to see animals on this path. In fact, just last week Traci and I saw a coyote cruising around back there. I’ve seen snakes too—rattlesnakes included. I’m not terrified of snakes, but I definitely prefer to see them well in advance.

About six weeks ago, I cruised past a rattlesnake on my bike. I didn’t notice it until I was right beside it—and it made it very clear I wasn’t welcome.

I also have two longtime friends—older men I really respect—who were bitten by copperheads while working in their yards in North Carolina. Thankfully, both were treated and recovered, but the experiences were still stressful. On the flip side, I have a friend who intentionally goes looking for rattlesnakes and copperheads. Not my speed, but that’s okay.

This morning, on a section of my walk, I found myself laser-focused straight down—constantly scanning for what might be there. It dawned on me:
This is exactly how many of us live our lives.

We spend so much time focused on the “snake” that we miss the beauty all around us.
We’re so worried about what might be there that we miss what actually is there.

The “snake” could be a negative idea, person, task, conversation, or experience—something we give too much attention to.

This morning, I was missing the blue sky, the quiet meadow, and the trees that make this loop so enjoyable—because I was only thinking about the possibility of a rattlesnake (which I didn’t even see). I adjusted my focus and started noticing the beauty again, which brought me back to the real purpose of the walk.

So what?

What’s the “snake” you’re focused on?
Is it even the season when you could encounter that “snake”?
What are you missing because you’re so focused on it?
What benefit are you really getting by giving it so much attention?

Here’s my encouragement today:
Don’t spend so much time worrying about what could happen. Refocus on what is happening in your life.
Notice what you’re thankful for.
Appreciate the people around you.
See what’s actually going well.
Pay attention to what you’re excited about.

Don’t worry about that snake!