Starting to Train Your Attention

It’s no secret that we are constantly distracted by our devices, unable to maintain attention on one thing for longer than a few minutes at a time. On top of the many external distractions we experience, our internal experience is filled with distractions as well. New thoughts enter our mind constantly and involuntarily. So how can we make sure we are mentally present for the moments that matter the most to us?

We must train our attention. Let’s start by looking at some typical daily activities:

- Brushing your teeth

- Taking a shower

- Driving your car

- Eating a meal

- Going for a walk

- Doing your laundry

All of these tasks have become so automated that we usually do them without conscious thought or effort. Notice next time you do one of these tasks, and you’ll see that your thoughts tend to wander towards the past or future. As a little exercise, try holding your attention on the task at hand, and bringing your attention back when it wanders. As you practice and build this muscle, you will find that you have more attentional RESILIENCE during more important moments of your life as well, such as having a conversation with a friend or partner, or playing a game with your kid.

Ultimately, we feel our best when we are engaged with the present moment. That is where FLOW happens. If maintaining present-moment focus is something you struggle with, it’s likely affecting how much joy and fulfillment you are able to experience day-to-day. And since you likely spend more hours working than doing anything else, evaluating your work-life experience is a great way to gauge how engaged you are in general.