In today's fast-paced society, where complexity often holds sway, achieving simplicity may appear difficult. We frequently find ourselves ensnared in webs of thoughts, stories, and assessments that obscure our grasp of the present moment. However, according to Andrew Olendzki in his piece "Keep It Simple," we can untangle these intricacies through a mindful practice of awareness.

The human mind is naturally inclined to complicate things, a concept known as papanca in Buddhist teachings. This occurs when we take a simple sensation or thought and layer it with interpretation, meaning, and judgment, often without realizing it. This can lead us to construct narratives, project into the future, or anchor in the past instead of simply experiencing the present moment.

Consider a time when you felt a hint of discomfort or sadness. The initial feeling may have been brief, but your mind likely began creating a story: "Why do I feel this way?" "What's wrong with me?" "This always happens." Suddenly, a simple moment of awareness turns into a series of self-referential thoughts that cause more suffering. It's no........

© Psychology Today