Since I started experimenting with a mindfulness meditation practice six months ago, my perspective changed. So today I’ll share how you can reap the benefits of meditation by being more mindful.

I’ll preface this by saying if you haven’t read my thoughts on meditation, here are the cliffs: I started with sitting in a dark room – observing my breath, clearing my thoughts, and noticing any sensations in my body.

Now six months in, the differences in my personal well being are a plenty.

But how?

Your perspective shifts after you teach yourself to become more attuned to your thoughts and sensations.

Basically, you take your learnings from meditating and extend it to all aspects of your life. Some people call this informal meditation.

Dedicating yourself to being in the present moment takes a ton of practice.

A certain diligence with catching yourself thinking is pretty tricky to get the hang of, but if you make the conscious effort, you’ll notice the benefits – it is an empowering feeling.

But, like everything else, it takes practice… no shortcuts here, friend.

What isn’t worth your thoughts?

I’m now realizing how absurd it is to dwell on the past. Something you have no control over is not worth your thoughts.

That mistake you made at work, or botched encounter with some girl or guy is history: move on.

Thinking about the future is a bit different, but the same premise applies. The future is exciting for some but anxiety provoking for others. My advice is to come to terms with what it is.

Instead of looking forward to things, focus your energy on what you can directly control, the present.

How can you be more mindful?

I started by learning to notice the present throughout every part of my day. Previously meaningless sensations I now  notice and embrace.

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