Focus on Mindfulness

Mindfulness is singular clear focus. For some of us, it is similar to meditation in a waking state. Extraneous internal and external noises are quieted, enabling us to focus on being in the moment. It gives us a chance to fully experience our task, our activity, our thought process and/or our feelings without distraction.

Multi-tasking is not mindfulness, though it takes a lot of concentration to do it well. One might argue the barrage of work, texting, phoning, being plugged-in and wired are necessities of life. I say they are choices often made in the moment or out of habit; choices that impede our ability to effectively and comfortably communicate face to face, as well as experience depth of life. We can also choose mindfulness, and it is sorely needed.

Many people manage to live each day without mindfulness, so why is it important? It is important to me, because I find greater enjoyment in my life activities and relationships. I experience a rewarding, deeper connection in the moment. I can do this through concentration on a single task or by being a good listener. I can tune out distractions rather than be controlled by them. I discover interesting detail and heightened involvement while leaving behind stress and superficiality.

Years ago, being “in the zone” was the phrase we used to describe the wonderful sensations of mindfulness. It is an enviable state characterized by high productivity, losing track of time, and the sense that the rest of the world disappears while engaging in the chosen activity. Finding our zone was considered an important part of the self-actualization process. Now, distractions have replaced being in the zone. Sadly, attention is put on soulless objects and entertainment, which seem to act as a buffer between the depressing harsh realities of our lives created from a “disconnect” with who we are and our place in the natural world.

We can reverse this “disconnect” by reconnecting – not with wi-fi or the latest gadget, but with ourselves and others. We can do this by choosing mindfulness when we start a project, talk to a friend, eat a meal, experience nature, and more. Mindfulness is important if we make it important. And like meditation, during mindfulness you may need moments to refocus when you realize you have wandered or allowed unwanted outside distractions to come in.

Ask yourself: How important is mindfulness? How would your life experience change if you practiced mindfulness? At the end of the day, the year, or your life, will you admonish yourself for not having paid more attention? The next time you have an opportunity to put your whole mind and being into your activity, rest or purpose, act on it and experience what mindfulness can do for you.

Author/speaker Janet F. Williams is a high-end sales professional, sales trainer and coach for personal and professional development. She speaks on topics contained in her award-winning book “You Don’t Ask, You Don’t Get” to businesses, networking groups, non-profits, book clubs and more. For more information or to buy the book, please visit: www.JanetFWilliams.com and www.GoodDayMedia.com.