Focus vs. Fixation: Returning to Openness

There’s a difference between fixation and focus. When it comes to a Mindfulness practice, I think the difference is really important.

To be mindful means holding a gentle focus on whatever is being felt or experienced in the present moment. This is a non-judgmental, curious, and compassionate focus; unlike the highly judgmental, problem focused, and obsessive nature of fixation.

Any addictive or compulsive tendency is likely there to inform us that we’ve fallen into some fixated way of perceiving and thinking and can also be a reminder for us to get honest and regain a mindful focus.

Focus is inclusive of everything; the coexistence of comfort and discomfort, while fixation tends to exclude some aspect of reality. Perhaps we’re caught in tunnel vision about a desire, leading to excessive control or denial about present reality. Or perhaps we’re fixated on aspects of our life that we dislike, causing us to ignore what’s positive or “good enough.”

When we tune into our bodies and emotions, we are also tuned into the truth of fixation. When we lean into discomfort or resistance with curiosity, then our fixations can be transformed into focus, which also opens us up to peace and a greater cooperation with life.

There’s always more to learn and accept, so let’s make space for it all.

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