We are already mindful, we all have awareness and an ability to be present, awake and alert to whatever is arising within and around us. We are mindful when we are able to be with ourselves and our circumstances, moment by moment with an open and accepting attitude to whatever is arising.
This inherent capacity to be mindful is what allows us to do well at anything, to be connected and partake in the present moment, whether we are listening to someone speak, working on a project or playing our favourite sport.
We lose our mindfulness when we become distracted by our worries, distressed by past events, ruminate about unresolved issues and get stuck in our negative and disturbing emotions. This happens daily and takes away our ability to live our lives to the fullest with presence and care.