Meditation, however many times I stop doing it, is always something I return to.
I believe mediation is value for very one specific reason: it involves the practice of focusing on one single thing.
It is very easy to become distracted, particularly in this always-on world – indeed, I believe distraction is my number one impairment to productivity. Despite knowing about switching costs, depth of thought required, and so on (all of which, cumulatively, conclude that enough distraction drops overall productivity to zero – regardless of how minor or idle it is), I continue to be distracted.
Meditation allows one to practice to very simple, yet essential, skill of focus. Each time a thought intrudes, simply let it pass through and go away – without disturbing the primary focus. Each external stimulus which could cause distraction is allowed to wash over you, eliciting no reaction.
It has, of course, other – poorly understood – benefits. People claim it reduces stress, liberates the mind, and so on. There is even evidence that it changes (in a significant way) brain structure.
I think those are side-benefits: nice if they accrue, but a byproduct of practicing focus. Focus is the more valuable skill.
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