First step in letting go of thoughts is to notice them. Being aware that we are wrapped up in thoughts instead of being in the present.
Thoughts include all mental constructs/activities:
- Concepts
- Imagery
- Stories
- Fantasies
- Ongoing commentary
- Planning
- Worrying
- Memories
- Judgment
- Thoughts about thoughts
In summary, thoughts are anything the mind does that pulls us away from actually experiencing the present moment.
Mental constructs and thoughts are not good, not bad. They have their function. We all have to think and plan in order to live our lives, show up to appointments, do our work, and take care of ourselves and loved ones.
The key is being able to use them appropriately as tools to help us. That means being able to let them go when they are not serving a function, or maybe even causing a hindrance.
Mindfulness is a skill that allows us to do that. It empowers us to relate to and engage with our thoughts in an intentional and skillful way, so that our minds can serve us instead of hinder us.
Mindfulness FAQ 