I was just out for a walk on the common. I’ve been working hard all week on a big project, and I’ve still got lots more to do.

I was rather hoping to enjoy the sunset. But my mind had other ideas – it kept on thinking about the project. I kept saying “no” to those thoughts – but they kept coming back.

Eventually, I remembered a mindfulness technique I got from Russ Harris’ book, “The Happiness Trap.”  When it comes to a magic moment, he suggests thanking your mind.

So I thanked my mind. I meant it too – I’ve been working my mind really hard, day and night, to make progress with this project. My mind’s been great – really rising to the challenge, even under pressure.

So I said thank you.

And that’s when my mind went quiet. Too late to enjoy the sunset, unfortunately, but I was surprised how much enjoyment and satisfaction I got from a quiet walk back in the dark.

Not only that, my mind said “that’d make a great blog post” and started writing it. Once again – thank you, mind!