Monkey Mind

When I am attempting to connect with someone or something else, my brain tends to keep wandering off into memories of the past, various assumptions, judgments or projections into the future, thus preventing me from a firm heart connection.  This sort of thing can happen to me when I am enjoying a sunrise on the beach, walking in the woods, meditating, meeting someone new or talking with an old friend.  Basically my brain just automatically begins projecting future events or making assumptions based on my past, and preventing me from living in the present and making a meaningful connection.  What works best for me is to notice what is happening and bring my brain back to the present, without any sort of judgment or criticism.