2 January 2020
Your thoughts and your worries have a way of demanding your attention, almost the entire day. Those meddling thoughts often beckon you in moments when you cannot do anything about them, like when you’re lying in bed, trying to drift off to sleep and you’re worried about some comment you made in a meeting. When the mind nags you with constant worry, the activities you’re engaged in, like eating breakfast for example, are done unconsciously. Your mind loves you to do things unconsciously, because then it can suck you into its incessant ramblings and concerns. But isn’t your attention more valuable than that? Why does the mind’s ramblings get to have all of your precious attention? It’s time to align your attention with the present moment, and experience the joy of NOW!
Today, be skeptical of those demanding thoughts rolling around in your head. Direct your attention to what you’re engaged in, at any given moment. If you’re relaxing, just allow the mind to relax too – don’t ruin your moment, only to be anxious about troublesome thoughts. Put down the phone, stop checking for texts and emails, and don’t worry about the headlines. If you want to check those things, set aside a particular time to do them – don’t just do them out of compulsion. Devote your attention to whatever activity you are engaged in, today. I love the way the Course in Miracles puts this – ask yourself, “What is the purpose of this moment?” Recalibrate and reconnect to everything you have to undertake today, as it comes to you. Don’t allow your chatty mind to demand your attention all the time. Reclaim your attention and direct it to each task, one at a time. As each moment arises today, devote yourself fully to its purpose. Let some ease into your day. The joy and energy you feel will increase threefold, if your attention is soley on whatever you are engaged in. Even the simplest tasks like walking, driving, or listening to someone speak can be done with great ease. Practice these principles, and don’t let your attention get hijacked and cause you anxiety. Don’t allow your mind to bother you with the drama of it’s worrisome clatter! Give it a rest, and be at peace with each moment today.