I follow the Dalai Lama’s advice when setting aside time to meditate.
What good practice really requires is a constant stream of effort: a sustained, persistent approach based on long-term commitment. For this reason, practicing properly, even for a short period of time, is the best way. The emphasis should be on quality rather than quantity.
Expecting myself to meditate very frequently, or for to meditate for long periods of time, discourages me. I am tempted to give up when I fail to live up to these expectations. I therefore do not set expectations about how frequently or how long I meditate. I remain committed to practicing meditation. But I focus on quality rather than quantity.
References
- Dalai Lama (2011). Beyond Religion. New York, NY: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. Quote taken from page 183.