pursuing it, I should never allow myself to
listen indifferently, but I must force myself to
strict attention.

Such practice would result ultimately in a
habit of concentration upon what I hear,
but would not necessarily increase my power
of concentration upon writing, adding, or other
activities. Specific training in each is essential,
and even then the results will be far short
of what might be desired. Persistent effort
in any direction is not without result, however,
and any increase in concentration is so valuable
that it is worth the effort it costs. If a man
lacks power of concentration in any particular
direction, he should force concentration in that
line and continue till a habit results.

Our control over our muscles and movements
far exceeds our direct control over our
attention. An attitude of concentration is
possible, even when the desired mental process
is not present. Thus by fixing my eyes on a
page and keeping them adjusted for reading,
even when my mind is on a subject far removed,
I can help my will to secure concentration. I

can likewise restrain myself from picking up a
newspaper or from chatting with a friend when