Sometimes when we get to a certain point in our lives we find ourselves at what seems to be an impasse. Maybe we are in a career path that doesn’t make sense anymore. You might think, “If only I’d done this, this, or this differently, things would be running more smoothly now.” Looking back and rethinking choices, whether they are career, academic, or life decisions, doesn’t make a lot of sense. That doesn’t make it any easier to stop doing it though!

But I think you need to ask yourself a question: what would make you feel better right now? If you enter a room and it’s dark, you don’t need so much to know why the light went off as where the light switch is. As soon as you turn it on, the problem is over.

You weren’t focusing on the darkness as you stumbled around, you were focusing on finding the light.

The same is true of any situation. If you’re having trouble making up your mind about what to do first, then take the focus off the problem and put it onto finding a solution. How?

You can use mindfulness and analytical meditation.

Sit in a comfortable position and bring your attention to any anchor. It’s easiest to focus on your body and your breath. When thoughts arise, notice them and then return to your anchor–your breath as it goes in and out, the rise and fall of your abdomen or chest, your body wherever it is resting. Then, place your problem or issue in a bubble in front of you.

This meditation comes from the Dalai Lama via Dr. Sanjay Gupta, who was invited to meditate with His Holiness and has shared his experiences with us.

See your problem or question in a bubble in front of you. Let the bubble float in front  of you, and allow it to turn around or flip upside down. The bubble—and the problem—have been detached from you and you can view the issue more objectively. New solutions and insights may arise. Be patient and keep your attention on what comes.

Here is the complete article.

Dr. Sanjay Gupta: Lessons from meditating with the Dalai Lama

I hope you’ll experiment with this method. Let me know how it works! I’d love to hear from you.  Email me at info@juliannedavidow.com with questions or comments.

“Only one thing has to change for us to know happiness in our lives: where we focus our attention. —Greg Anderson