Kyudo Roshi has frequently urged his Zen followers to make "hard effort," saying, "If thoughts come, don't follow them." In like manner, Cassian passed on the teaching:
"It is impossible for the mind not to be troubled by thoughts. But if we exert ourselves, it is within our power either to accept them and give them our attention, or to expel them. The amending of our mind is also within the power of our choice and effort. When we meditate wisely and continually, thoughts diminish and find no place."
— Tom Chetwynd, Kyudo Roshi, Zen and the Kingdom of Heaven by Tom Chetwynd