Hello - nice to be with you all

[JudeB]

Just discovered your site via the mindful.org newsletter which I get every month, and which has some very helpful and interesting features.

I bought the book 'Finding Peace In A Frantic World' by Prof Mark Williams & Dr Danny Penman, as a way of getting into mindfulness meditatiom, but so far have just not been able to get very far. Time is an issue, and sometimes I feel too anxious to be able to concentrate on what I need to do.

Any pointers on how to break this vicious circle greatly appreciated! Thank you.

[JonW]

Hi Jude B,
Welcome to the forum.
Finding Peace In A Frantic World is an excellent entry point for mindfulness. Well chosen.
I can understand your resistance to making a start. Shortage of time is an issue for a lot of people. And, if you're anxious to begin with, the thoughts naturally arise, "Will I be able to meditate? How will I be able to concentrate?" These kinds of thoughts are not uncommon among newcomers to the practice. As you'll soon learn in mindfulness, they're just thoughts, not facts. Try not to let those thoughts discourage you. Simply notice them as passing thoughts.
My advice would be to wait for a week when you're not too pressed time-wise, then start the course using the book and the accompanying CD. If memory serves, the first few weeks involve around 20 mins of formal meditation each day.
Ease your way into it. The most important consideration at all times is self-compassion. Try not to expect immediate results. Once you start the course, try to do formal meditation most days - maybe give yourself one day off a week.
If you need support, you'll find plenty of it on this forum. So please feel free to ask as many questions as you like.
This link might be useful.
viewtopic.php?f=21&t=3456
It's a thread we ran specifically on the 8-week course, as led by the Williams/Penman book. It would be best if you resisted the temptation to read ahead of the week you're actually on.
That's all for me for now. Except to say that I wish you all the best on your mindfulness journey. I've been on it for almost three years now and it wouldn't be exaggerating to say that mindfulness has transformed my life.
All good things,
Jon, Hove

[JudeB]

Many thanks, Jon, for your encouraging words!

[Gareth]

Hi Jude, welcome to the forum.

We got mentioned in the newsletter did we? - that's good.

I wish you luck on your journey. Remember we are here to help at any time.

[FeeHutch]

Hey Jude (sorry)
Welcome to our friendly community.