The Power of Paying Attention
In this article about focus, the well-known author Daniel Goleman describes our capacity for paying attention as a “mental muscle”. He goes on to explain that meditation and mindfulness can sharpen our ability to focus. The need to multitask and be “productive” can rob us of the experience of enjoying each moment. People who have experienced developmental trauma sometimes live their lives as a problem to be solved. This approach is more about enduring life rather than enjoying it. If we practice mindfulness, a simple task like loading the dishwasher can become more enjoyable. It’s as simple as noticing your breath as you place each plate into the rack.