Gözde Yeşiltaş's Key Ideas from How to Focus
by Thich Nhat Hanh

Key Teaching: Clear space in your mind by releasing unnecessary thoughts.

Practice: Visualize your thoughts as clouds passing by without grasping them.

Reflection: What kinds of thoughts do I habitually cling to? How can I practice letting them go?

Key Teaching: True focus means dedicating full attention to one task at a time.

Practice: Choose one daily activity to do mindfully, without multitasking.

Reflection: How does single-tasking affect my productivity and peace?

Key Teaching: Technology can fragment attention; mindful use restores clarity.

Practice: Set specific times to check devices and silence notifications outside those times.

Reflection: What role does technology play in my focus? How can I create healthier boundaries?

Key Teaching: Focus is a practice, not a perfect achievement.

Practice: When your mind wanders, gently return without self-criticism.

Reflection: How do I talk to myself when I lose focus? Can I be kinder?

Key Teaching: External order supports internal focus.

Practice: Clear your workspace and minimize noise to invite concentration.

Reflection: What environmental changes would help me focus better?

Key Teaching: Rest restores focus and prevents burnout.

Practice: Take mindful breaks that refresh your body and mind regularly.

Reflection: How do I currently rest? What kind of rest actually renews me?

Key Teaching: Focus deepens when infused with loving kindness toward yourself and others.

Practice: Before tasks, set the intention to be fully present and kind.

Reflection: How does bringing compassion to focus change my experience?

Key Teaching: Focus helps clarify what truly matters, guiding intentional living.

Practice: Reflect on your values daily to align your attention with what’s important.

Reflection: What are my core values? How aligned is my daily focus with them?