When practice feels difficult, begin by identifying the conditions contributing to the difficulty. Are distractions, an irregular routine, or expectations of quick results making practice harder? Look carefully at what is happening and what supports it.
If several conditions are involved, choose one that you can change and give it your attention. For example, if checking your phone repeatedly interrupts meditation, put it aside during the time you have set for practice.
Observe whether the change helps, and adjust it when necessary. Keep repeating the helpful change until it becomes natural. Then address another condition, if needed. Patiently changing one condition at a time can gradually make practice more steady and less of a struggle.
Nancy Acord