Singlemindedness

Singlemindedness is the quality of directing one's attention and actions toward a single goal, principle, or plan to the exclusion of other considerations. It involves sustained concentration, determination, and a high tolerance for obstacles.

The term combines 'single' and 'minded' and appears in English discourse for many centuries, often used to describe someone who pursues one objective with exceptional intensity.

Characteristics include persistent effort, high self-motivation, and a clear mental model of the desired outcome. It can produce rapid progress in tasks that require deep focus or specialized expertise but may also create tunnel vision, reduce flexibility, and strain relationships with others.

In practice, singlemindedness can be advantageous in entrepreneurship, research, athletics, or creative work where a well-defined goal is essential. It can help sustain effort through setbacks and align decisions with a long-term plan.

Critics note that sustained singlemindedness may lead to rigidity, ethical blind spots, or incongruity with changing circumstances. Balanced approaches emphasize metacognition, feedback, and the capacity to re-evaluate goals. Social and organizational contexts often reward both determination and collaborative adaptability.