People often tell me that they just can’t meditate. They say they simply can’t switch their minds off. But the goal of meditation isn’t to switch off the mind. It’s too hard, especially if you’ve never meditated before. I once heard Eckhart Tolle say that he could stop thinking for 7 minutes. I had to pause and wonder, Is that even possible? I’ve meditated for years and I don’t think I can get to a minute. Of course as soon as meditation becomes a chore, or something where you have to strive for some goal, it kind of defeats the purpose.
I still sometimes try to wrestle myself into a state of not thinking. This doesn’t work and can add to my frustration. What is more beneficial is to simply notice things. When meditating the goal is not to fight against the doubts, insecurities, worries and complaints in your head. The idea is to become aware of them, to simply notice it all without judgement.