How many times have you avoided listened to someone, then wandered off while thinking about what you need to pick up at the store or what you want for dinner?

Often, a lot of us have wandered off because we’re pre-occupied with the following, typical responsibilities and obligations:

  • Personal
  • Family/Friends
  • Health
  • Home
  • Work

How hard is it for anyone trying to become mindful, to shut off these distractions and allow time to be in the now?

Can we really just watch little Billy, wave when he sees you, smile to the other children, and stay in the now?

The simple answer would be:

Yes, for sure, we could do that.

But…. How often do we use these times to sneak a few emails, set those upcoming reminders and moreover – use that time to multitask?

These are times that I won’t be able to get back and I want to be present – not just in body but in my mind.

If you’ve ever wandered off, here are some tips to help you be in the now:

  • Leave the cell at home when at the park with the kiddos. Believe it or not, payphones still exist in case of an emergency.
  • Create “blackout” times for yourself (check out apps like Flipd to help you stay focused in the present).
  • Pay attention to all you do (think about yourself chewing or even what you are currently thinking about).
  • Always circle back to breathing concentration.

And at that moment, allow everything else to just be. 

Once you have reached a state of peace and presence – jolt back to the now.  Your focus and state of mind are what will help you avoid the temptation to wander off. It’s also what will bring you right back to where you are supposed to be.

This post was originally published on deanblundell.com.