Mindfulness is tuning the brain to focus on the present moment. As you apply mindfulness to your life, you will begin to see major results in all areas of your life. Focusing on the here and now results in greater peace of mind and greater clarity.
Using this approach, we can avoid drifting around in confusion, being consumed with thoughts of what might have been, or planning things that are beyond our control. There are many easy ways to practice mindfulness. In this article, you will learn how to apply three tips for paying attention in everyday life.
1. Choose foods mindfully
Mindful eating is something that many people take for granted. Too often we are in a rush to finish our meal and miss out on one of life's simplest and most wonderful pleasures. The next time you eat a meal, try to eat mindfully. Before you start eating, observe the food presentation and smell. Remember to take small bites and chew slowly while paying attention to the texture and taste of the food. When you fully immerse yourself in the present moment, it not only makes mindful eating more enjoyable, but also aids digestion and prevents overeating.
2. Listen with your full attention
Conversations with other people are another great opportunity to practice active mindfulness. Sometimes when other people talk to us, we are there physically but not with our whole being. We either think about what we're going to say next or we judge what others say, mentally agreeing or disagreeing with them before they've even finished speaking.
To listen mindfully, you need to fully focus on others when you are chatting. The next time you have a conversation with a loved one or coworker, avoid getting caught up in your own mental chatter. Pay attention to what they say. People appreciate that you really listen to them, and they'll likely respond the same when it's your turn to speak.
3. Focus on one thing at a time
In today's fast-paced world, multitasking has become a mainstream trend with people trying to get more done in a short period of time. And, while people think multitasking makes us more productive, it only leads to quick and unnecessary burnout. When you get tired quickly, mistakes are inevitable. This can be avoided by doing things one by one and being careful. When you take on tasks with full concentration one by one, there is little room for mistakes or oversights due to rushing. You will find that you are more efficient and less exhausted as you go through each task one at a time, mindfully.
Keep in mind that there are many other opportunities in our daily lives to be mindful and fully live in the moment. By practicing mindfulness on a daily basis, the brain learns to be more efficient and better integrated. You will start to concentrate better and be less distracted. The stress level will also decrease. In return, your daily activities, thoughts, attitudes and perceptions will be more balanced.
