Use the Lamp of Awareness
Use the lamp of awareness to observe different states of consciousness. By becoming aware of our changing mental conditions, we can rise above the normally distracted state of mind by directing our attention toward higher consciousness.
~Yogacharya Ellen Grace O'Brian
A steady practice of meditation gives us full awareness of the thoughts taking place in our mental field. Once we have this ability to be aware, we can change the distracted patterns in our mind. We can use techniques like concentrated awareness of the breath to reach a state of single pointed focus. This can help us easily accomplish tasks after meditation out in the busy world, and moreover we can cultivate a higher level of compassionate consciousness when dealing with others in difficult situations.