An artist paints with focus; the painting becomes complete only through ekagrata (one-pointedness). Similarly, whatever is our goal, we need focus on that to make it complete.
A mind clouded by attachment cannot distinguish between right and wrong.
Where there is concentration, there is harmony. Happiness is derived from concentration of the mind. Whatever we focus on we will become that.
We need to focus on our destination. Let the thoughts arising in your mind pass by, like watching scenery through the window of a car. The thoughts cannot affect you if you don't allow them to capture your attention.
Chant your mantra while engaged in work. This way, the mind will be continuously focused on Him.
When a flower is still a bud, we cannot experience its beauty or fragrance. We have to wait patiently for the bud to unfold on its own. Only then can we fully experience its beauty and fragrance.
How to attain concentration? There are no short cuts. Constant practice is needed. In the beginning, it is a great thing if by chance we get even one or two minutes of concentration in an hour. We should make continuous and sincere effort without stopping until we gain one pointed concentration.
The mind always has expectations. In order to experience pure consciousness, this nature of the mind must disappear.