Does mindfulness expose mental habits?
Short Answer
Yes. That is one of its main functions. You start to see repetitive loops, triggers, and avoidance strategies as they happen rather than after the fact.
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.