paying attention differently

This practice is part of the Still Point collection — a set of reflections designed to help you pause, think clearly, and lead with intention.

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Practice 5: Paying Attention Differently

Use this when everything feels fast, habitual, or slightly blurred, and you want to widen your awareness before acting.

Purpose

To widen awareness and restore perspective by slowing down and noticing your environment and interactions.

Set-up

Choose whether to reflect, write or draw. Set a timer for five minutes for each part.

Flow

Part 1 - Turn to face a different direction than usual. Focus closely on something in your environment. Notice colour, detail and texture.

Part 2 - Mentally retrace the last 24 hours. Pause the "video" at key moments. Notice details you might usually overlook.

Part 3 - Bring to mind the people you encountered in the last 24 hours. Notice the quality of those interactions.

Part 4 - Ask yourself: what do I want to pay attention to tomorrow?

Gather what feels important before finishing.