The moment we stray from where we are, we create a tension between two places – where we are and where we are thinking of being. It is this tension that blocks us from the sensation of being fully alive, because being split in our attention prevents us from being authentic – even though managing many tasks at once (being skilful in splitting our attention)  is considered intelligent.

For most of us, straying from where we are and coming back is a never-ending task, very much like blinking and breathing. When we incorporate the fullness of attention into our daily lives, we seldom notice it. But if we should interrupt our flow of being, we will stumble just as surely as if we were to stop seeing or breathing. That we stray from the moment is not surprising. The more crucial thing is that we return. 

Mark Nepo, The Book Of Awakening