Common Obstacles to Practice

The most common obstacle to meditation practice is not wanting to. Some part of you may think it is a good idea, but when the impulse to sit comes to you as a passing thought or feeling, other thoughts and feelings immediately crowd in, saying things like “Not now” or “Who has time?” or “I’d rather read or get in touch with so and so” or “It’s time to eat right now,” or “I have too much work right now” or “I’ll do it later” or “I’ll start tomorrow” or “I’ll just be mindful doing what I’m doing.” The mind is always secreting thoughts that can divert or deflect the initial impulse. …