The Gift of Attention

There are many options in this world: from what we choose at the market, to the clothes we adorn, to the entertainment we engage with. A multitude of channels try to access our attention, some helpful and interesting, others superficial and annoying. Our attention is precious, we have a limited span and have to be choosey with where we spend it.

How do you decide where to put your attention? Can you sense the difference in your self when you spend it on something worthwhile versus banal? I know that when I fall in an attention hole of scrolling or mindless binging, I feel swirly in my mind and a lack of energy. The rabbit holes of social media and just plain ol’ media can highjack our attention and zap our resources. When we put our attention into restorative or rejuvenating places, like meditation, reading, or connection, we gain something from what we give out. This helps maintain balance in our mental and emotional resources.

Practice: Notice what draws your attention. Ask yourself why you are drawn in that direction and tune into the effect of where you put your attention. Does it make you feel good? Does it drain you?

Challenge: What are the mindless habits that take your attention? See if you can interrupt a habit and give your attention an alternative path.