Meaning: The quote by Daniel Goleman highlights the importance of practicing mindfulness and training one's attention to remain focused on the present moment. Goleman is a psychologist and science journalist known for his work on emotional intelligence and mindfulness. In this quote, he emphasizes the idea that through consistent practice, individuals can develop the ability to control their attention and remain present at will.

The concept of training attention to hover in the present is central to mindfulness practice. Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment, allowing individuals to become more aware of their thoughts, emotions, and sensations. By training the mind to focus on the present, individuals can cultivate greater mental clarity and emotional resilience.

Goleman's quote suggests that through regular practice, individuals can build the internal capacity to maintain present-moment awareness as needed. This implies that mindfulness is a skill that can be developed and strengthened over time. By intentionally directing attention to the present moment, individuals can enhance their ability to stay focused, reduce distractions, and manage stress more effectively.

The idea of building internal capacity aligns with the concept of neuroplasticity, which refers to the brain's ability to reorganize and form new neural connections in response to experience and learning. Through consistent mindfulness practice, individuals can reshape their brains, strengthening the neural circuits associated with attention and present-moment awareness.

Furthermore, Goleman's assertion that individuals can learn to maintain present-moment awareness "at will and voluntarily" underscores the idea that mindfulness is a trainable skill rather than an innate trait. This perspective is empowering, as it suggests that individuals have agency in cultivating mindfulness and can actively choose to direct their attention to the present moment in various situations.

The quote also implies that the benefits of mindfulness practice extend beyond the formal practice sessions. By developing the internal capacity to remain present, individuals may find it easier to navigate challenging circumstances, regulate their emotions, and make clearer decisions in their daily lives. This aligns with research indicating that mindfulness practice is associated with improved focus, emotional regulation, and overall well-being.

In conclusion, Daniel Goleman's quote underscores the transformative potential of mindfulness practice in training attention to hover in the present. By emphasizing the development of internal capacity and the voluntary nature of present-moment awareness, Goleman highlights the malleability of attention and the empowering nature of mindfulness as a skill. This perspective encourages individuals to engage in regular mindfulness practice, recognizing that they can cultivate the ability to maintain present-moment awareness and reap its multitude of benefits in their lives.