Does mindfulness reduce distraction?
Short Answer
It can reduce distraction by strengthening meta-awareness: you notice drifting sooner and return with less frustration. Distractions may still arise, but they have less pull. The goal is not zero distraction; it’s faster recovery.
Why This Matters
Mindfulness works by changing attention and meta-awareness, not by eliminating experience. When you understand attention mechanics, you stop interpreting distraction as failure. This makes practice more stable and transferable to work and relationships.
Where This Changes
Focused vs open mindfulness can produce very different experiences. If one style increases tension or rumination, switch styles or change anchors. The “right” form is the one that increases clarity without destabilizing you.