Attention Skills

The present moment is filled with joy and happiness. If you are attentive, you will see it. —Thich Nhat Hanh

We’re all naturally gifted with conscious awareness. The core capacities of consciousness include attention, perception, intention, non-reactivity, and self-awareness. A well-developed mindfulness practice exercises all of these capacities. Three skills are especially valuable for shifting our focus toward the Now:

Concentration. Making a conscious effort to pay attention, focusing on what’s happening here and now, instead of running on autopilot or letting your mind wander.

Non-Judgment. Observing your thoughts and feelings without labeling them as "good" or "bad." Accepting whatever comes up--the joy, the wonder, even the uncomfortable and disagreeable.

Letting Go. Releasing attachment to thoughts, emotions, or experiences—especially those that are unhelpful, repetitive, or driven by fears, worries, regrets, and craving.