Mindfulness is the practice of focusing your attention on the here and now – the present moment. (It’s external) Whereas mindful thinking is the practice of focusing your attention on your thoughts (it’s internal), so that when you catch yourself thinking negative thoughts, you can then focus your attention on a positive and pleasant thought instead. If you catch yourself thinking positive thoughts, then there is no reason to change the focus of your thinking. Continue thinking your pleasant thoughts. Repetition of mindful thinking programs your mind (see Understanding Neuroplasticity) to have a positive mindset and reduces thinking negative thoughts that cause stress, anxiety and hostility.