Mindfulness is not: “should”

“I should practice more, but I have such a hard time doing it.” Why should you?

In mindfulness training, we ask people to practice. It's like playing the piano. If you don't do it, nothing will happen. That's logical.

But having to is not the right motive. Sometimes people come because someone tells them to. For me that is no reason to participate.

The only good reason is a longing to do it. In the beginning, that longing is nothing more than a vague sense, just enough to get started. That is why it is important to be well-informed. (That's also the whole point of this series of texts, to avoid misunderstandings.)

As you do it more, the longing and the confidence in it grows. Then it has become something of your own.

Then there is no more “I should” practice. Maybe a little discipline. Discipline is something that helps you do what you really long to do.

May 2017

This text is part of a series about misunderstandings regarding mindfulness.
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