Apply mindfulness skills to everyday activities—plan the task, choose a What/How skill focus, and reflect on the impact.
Tip: jot notes below, then print or “Save as PDF.”
Move through each step slowly. Notice what the skill asks for and how you can experiment in real life.
Select a routine moment (eating, commuting, emailing, chores) that you will do mindfully today.
Decide which What and How skills you will emphasize (e.g., Observe + Non-judgmentally).
Carry out the activity with full attention. Notice sensory details, thoughts, emotions, and urges as they arise.
Log what went well, where you drifted, and how you will re-approach the activity tomorrow.
Try spotting moments like these in your week. Notice how the skill changes the ripple effect of a tough situation.
Mindful dishwashing
You chose dishwashing, focused on Observe and One-mindfully, noticed warmth of water and scent of soap. When mind wandered to work email, you returned to sensations.
Mindful email check
You set the intention to Describe and Effectively respond. You read one message at a time, labeled emotions (“annoyed”), and responded with clarity instead of rushing.
Plan four everyday activities this week to practice mindfulness. Rotate the skills you emphasize.
What activity did you choose and which skills were you practicing?
What details did you observe or describe during the task?
Where did your attention drift, and how did you return?
What did you learn about doing everyday moments mindfully?
WithMarsha guides you through this skill in real time, keeps track of your practice, and helps you build your DBT toolkit day by day.
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