Distraction drugs us into forgetfulness. Even when we yearn to be focused on something meaningful, it erupts again. We cannot switch it off — and the more frustrated we get, the worse it becomes.
Instead of fighting it, embrace it. Accept that this is how things are right now: I am compulsively distracted. Acceptance might even lead to understanding what it is that we're running from. Instead of giving in to irritation, gently and patiently keep bringing the attention back. Then we may suddenly notice that the turmoil has stopped, as though a storm has passed. There might still be an occasional gust, but — for the time being, at least — it is calm.
— Stephen Batchelor, Buddhism Without Beliefs