Wisdom is the prime thing

In part I and part II of this series, we’ve discussed the two major components of building a program to developing laser-like concentration: progressively and purposefully sharpening focus and training our minds to avoid distraction. How do we put all this together into a useful program?

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In the first post of this series, we discussed ways to improve concentration on external objects and avoiding the distractions of external stimuli that threaten to hijack our focus.

But how do we improve our focus on the internal objects of consciousness – the ephemeral thoughts and emotions of the moment — and avoid the pitfalls of distraction in the inner workings of our minds? » Read the rest of this entry

We live in a society of constant distraction. It molds our minds into a state of continuously splintered attention. For instance, while doing some reading, the phone rings. As you get off the phone, your cell phone beeps to alert you to a text message. To answer it you get online to look something up, and in the process remember something else you needed to look for. You go to send an email, but a more pressing email demands to be read and answered. Now you’re back to your reading and are besieged by various thoughts. By the end of the chapter, you have trouble remembering anything you read.

What can be done to reclaim consciousness, hone concentration, and sharpen focus? » Read the rest of this entry