Dedicating your undivided attention to a task is often easier said than done. As much as you may want to be completely focused…. your mind wanders. You start thinking about dinner plans or your to-do list. There is a reason for this: our minds are programmed to do more than one thing at a time. Whether you are driving while carrying on a conversation or dealing with a big project at work while answering emails and text messages, multi-tasking is a must these days. As a society, we are always in a state of go-go-go and as a result, need to improve focus. Why? Constant multi-tasking is great for productivity but can be mentally and emotionally draining.

Before you know it, you start to feel stressed, unhappy, and unable to focus on anything for more than a few minutes at a time. This can be especially troubling when it comes to meditation. There are many notable benefits linked to this practice (like an increased sense of happiness and purpose, lower stress levels, and an overall feeling of balance), and yet it can be difficult for many of us to do. If you are struggling to make the most of meditation, don’t worry. Here are some tips to help you improve focus.

Improve Focus By Starting Small

One quote to keep in mind is “progress not perfection.” This isn’t just a cute saying, it can actually be applied to your meditation practice. To improve focus, take time to remind yourself that you will not go from scattered and distracted to Zen in a single day. This knowledge alone can really take the pressure off! Just remember that meditation is a practice. It is something you will continue to work at day after day. Start small (try meditating for a few minutes every day to begin with, and add on more time on as you relax into the process) and see what happens. Patience and persistence will pay off.

Listen to Your Instincts

There may be an incredible how-to guide on meditation that everyone is raving about. Perhaps it outlines every single thing you need to do to achieve a successful meditative state. It might be a great guide but the reality is that it may not work for you. That is why it is essential that you trust your instincts and determine what feels right for you. For instance, you might want to start off with a guided meditation, have a CD of Tibetan singing bowls playing in the background, set up a relaxing space, light a candle to improve focus, use crystals, or even do an oracle card reading beforehand. Test out different elements and see what boosts your focus before, during, and after your meditation.

Try Exercises for Focus

We live in a busy society. As a result, it has become increasingly difficult for people to focus on just one task at a time. (Which means one thing: you are not alone.) Thankfully, there are many exercises that can help you improve focus. Many suggestions, tools, and tricks are available online, like this one. There are also apps dedicated to the specific purpose of increasing your ability to focus. Take a look at the resources available to you, try out a few exercises, and get ready to increase your focus. After a while, you will start to see a difference in your meditation practice.

Add Crystals to Your Meditation

It is astounding how many uses there are for crystals. Some work well for achieving balance, others for clearing away negativity or strengthening relationships, and a few for releasing old fears and moving forward. It seems there is a crystal for just about every emotion, ailment, and situation! They can be a wonderful addition to your day – especially if there is something specific you want to work on. To improve focus, the right crystal is all you need to stay sharp and on task. Hold one during meditation or surround your meditation area with one or more of these beautiful stones.

Best Crystals for Focus

With the right crystal by your side, it can become easier to focus on what you really want. Add these to your home, office, or anywhere you need that extra boost during meditation.

• Amethyst. If you have been looking for a new crystal to add to your collection lately, choose amethyst. It has so many uses, including an increased ability to focus. It works to create a sense of calm and help you achieve a clearer perspective on an individual task and life in general. This perspective makes it easier to focus on the task at hand logically instead of being ruled or overcome by intense emotions.
• Tigers Eye. Another great crystal to help improve focus is tigers eye. This is a grounding stone that boosts your ability to concentrate. It also makes you feel more confident in what you are doing and reduces feelings of anxiety. If that wasn’t enough, this crystal can also improve your intuition. (Which makes it a wonderful stone to meditate with!) Be sure to add this into your practice…especially when you need a little extra focus.
• Clear Quartz. This is a must have if you need to concentrate on a specific project, either at work or school. It can also be effective for those who need a little push to focus on a creative task or improve meditation. Clear quartz creates a feeling of balance and will clear your mind of any unnecessary thoughts or emotions. Simply putting this near you can make a noticeable difference in your ability to concentrate.
• Other Crystals for Focus: In addition to the three crystals listed above, there are a few others that can also be helpful. They include citrine, jade, amber, carnelian, and fluorite. Each has the ability to improve focus and benefit your meditation.

It may not be easy to find your focus during meditation but it is possible. Be patient with yourself, listen to your intuition, and add mental exercises to your day. The results will be noticeable – and potentially life changing.