Stay Alert, Beware Of Your Surroundings

Are you the type of person who becomes so focus-driven that you only think about one goal or task? Pouring all your time, energy and resources into it—often losing track of time and neglecting loved ones, a partner or friends? Maybe you know someone like that. Work comes first, and they go all-in while everything else falls apart, unnoticed—until the damage is done. Many relationships and families have suffered because of this imbalance. Pursuing goals is important, but maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential.
My husband, Thomas Iland, shares a series called Tom’s Tuesday TikTok Talks, releasing a new video each week. Recently, he highlighted a Chinese idiom: “The mantis stalks the cicada, unaware of the oriole behind.” From Shuo Yuan, it warns that narrow focus on immediate gain can blind us to hidden dangers—the “hunter becomes the hunted.”
Tom’s talk is insightful and thought-provoking, and I love how clearly he presents it. You can watch it on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram and LinkedIn.
There’s much to learn from this wisdom. Apply it at work, while pursuing goals, and in everyday life. Stay aware—balance matters.
With over 20 years of experience, we’re here to help you grow and stay on track. My husband, Thomas Iland, AS, CHPC, and I offer coaching, speaking and training in relationships, workplace development and personal growth.
Order our book, They Said We Couldn’t, So We Did: Making Relationships Work When the Odds Are Against You, or book us for your next event. I’m an entrepreneur, Certified Life Coach, evangelist, singer and spiritual counselor, here to support you. Contact me at thequeenofinspiration@gmail.com.
Thomas Iland, owner of Come To Life Coaching, is one of fewer than 100 Toastmasters Accredited Speakers worldwide, a Certified Human Potential Coach, 2x Guinness World Record holder and bestselling author. Visit ComeToLifeCoaching.com or email tom@cometolifecoaching.com for a free 30-minute consultation, or call 661-313-3323.