For more than two decades, psychologist and journalist Daniel Goleman has been scouting the leading edge of the human sciences for what’s new, surprising, and important. In Focus he delves into recent neuroscience research on attention, self-mastery, and metacognition, bringing these often under-appreciated mental abilities to center stage. He shows how the ability to focus-what the author calls “self-reflexive attention”-is essential for high performance. Rich case studies from fields as diverse as competitive swimming, chamber music ensembles, Zen Buddhism, and the corner office reveal core principles and techniques that readers can apply to improve their ability to harness their attention and to achieve their goals.

New and startling findings highlight the importance of Focus when it comes to performing at our best. One global study of the management abilities of more than 4,000 top level executives reveals that this mental skill-Focus-is the key to all the rest. Other research from professional sports and the performing arts also shows how Focus distinguishes stars from average performers. The cluster of competencies that form Focus range from staying calm under pressure and the discipline and drive to continually improve, to empathy, persuasion, and conflict management. Focus predicts who will be an outstanding leader, team member, or solo performer.

The topic of this book has been the subject of research in cognitive neuroscience for years, but little work has linked this arcane field of research to everyday excellence. Focus makes that connection, bringing home how this mental asset matters enormously for how we navigate our lives and careers.