Does difficulty mean it’s not working?
Short Answer
No. Difficulty often means you’re noticing what was previously unconscious. “Working” in mindfulness often looks like increased awareness of drifting, resistance, and emotion—not immediate calm. ---
Why This Matters
Difficulty is often the first honest signal of what your mind normally avoids. Understanding common friction states prevents you from mislabeling practice as “not working.” The skill is returning without self-attack.
Where This Changes
If practice increases anxiety or agitation, the adjustment is usually less intensity, not more willpower. Use shorter sessions, soften effort, and choose anchors that feel stabilizing.