39MinDFulne SS Skill S
Introduction to Handouts and Worksheets
Mindfulness is the act of consciously focusing the mind in the present moment, 
without judgment and without attachment to the moment. A person who is mind -
ful is aware in and of the present moment. Mindfulness is the opposite of being on “automatic pilot,” or being lost in habit. Mindfulness has to do with the quality of awareness that a person brings to everyday living. It’s a way of living awake, with 
eyes wide open. As a set of skills, mindfulness practice is the intentional process of 
observing, describing, and participating in reality nonjudgmentally, in the moment, and with effectiveness (i.e., using skillful means). We can contrast mindfulness with rigidly clinging to the present moment, as if we could keep a present moment from 
changing if we cling hard enough. When we are mindful, we are open to the fluidity 
of each moment as it arises and falls away.
Goals and Definitions
••Mindfulness Handout 1: Goals of Mindfulness Practice. The goals of practic -
ing mindfulness skills, for most people, are to reduce suffering, increase happiness, 
and increase control of the mind. For some, a goal of mindfulness is to experience 
reality as it is . Mindfulness skills require practice, practice, practice.
••Mindfulness Handout 2: Mindfulness Definitions. This handout offers basic 
definitions of mindfulness, mindfulness skills, and mindfulness practice.
••Mindfulness Worksheet 1: Pros and Cons of Practicing Mindfulness. This 
worksheet is designed to help you decide whether you have anything to gain from 
practicing mindfulness.
Core Mindfulness Skills
The handouts and worksheets for Core Mindfulness Skills cover seven skills in three