Where attention goes energy flows
Why do we want ‘focus of attention’?
When we have a lot of things calling for our attention what tends to happen? We become distracted, unable to concentrate, confused, indecisive, and our energy is dissipated. Focus of attention is not about having less demands but the ability to focus our attention on the right thing at the right time and so avoid the above.
Learning to ‘focus our attention’
1. In order to have this ability we first have to recognise its importance.
2. We need to foster the ability to pay attention by thinking less, so as to be able to listen/be attentive to what is in front of us. This isn’t about stopping thinking – it is the mind’s function to think after all – but about stopping the spinning of thoughts that we get into (over rationalising and over questioning). Actually if you did manage to make it blank you would probably soon get bored! Ultimately this is the ability to focus the mind on one positive thought and go into its depths. Why do we need to practice this? The mind has the ability to think the right thought at the right time, to give us the right solution to the situation in front of us. However, how will we ‘hear’ the answer if our mind is generating a vast number of thoughts?
3. We need to develop the ability to see the goodness/the positive in everything. Why? Thinking negatively sets us of on a train of thinking, such as, If this.. then .. and.. why.. what… maybe if… etc. Thoughts accelerate and we feel: I am right! Seeing the goodness cuts through the negative and allows us to see the bigger picture calmly and attentively and so the solution.
4. We need to foster the internal qualities of attention: patience, compassion and generosity. If I am interested in nourishing myself and others my attention will be automatically held. These qualities allow me to stay true to my motives and intentions and follow then through. When I bring these into play focus of attention becomes easy.
5. We need to be able to step back and observe situations objectively. Whatever interactions I am having with others is a reflection of the relationship I am currently having with myself. If I find myself angry with someone it is really myself that I am angry with for not honouring my own gorals. Maybe I am expecting others to give the same priority to things as I do, then when they don’t I loose focus, get hurt and feel angry, leaving others feeling inhibited and controlled. Instead if I step back from my own thoughts and feelings then I will be able to see the situation objectively and the direction that I need to go in and to find the strength I need to take myself in that direction. This needs love, thinking well of and care for myself.
6. We need to look at our values and principles, certain ones will help focus of attention and others do the opposite, such as, doing with care, attention to detail versus carelessness and laziness. It is only when everything in life in its right place that I will I truly be able to sit back and relax into the picture – as nothing will be pulling me. – and see what needs to be done next.
7. We need to find pleasure in what we are doing and recognise its value, otherwise I will not be able to give it full attention. If there is no pleasure in what you are doing create interest as this will create attention and focus, or you will just want to be elsewhere. When I see that what I do makes a difference or a contribution I see the preciousness of what I am doing and this creates pleasure in doing this task, focus then comes naturally and I begin to see beauty in everything. Then there is 100% success.
So, sit down and let all thoughts go and be present here in this moment. Be comfortable with this moment and use this moment to its highest potential. I am here now so why think about the past or the future, tell your mind that’s gone or that is for later and for now let’s be here and attentive.
