I try to follow random thoughts.
There were times that my mind was running off here and there.
Then I came back to focusing my attention back on the breath.
Then I became aware how calm my mind has become.
I was able to focus on the breath.
It was as if I was observing these things happening all the while focusing and remaining focused on the breath.
The calm continued for a while.
I was able to focus on the breath.
The calm continued for a while.
And I'm still at that state even as I write this question.
Am I doing awareness the right way?
It's a little difficult to say whether this is the correct way of doing it or not incorrect way.
Because we're trying to move away from the performance based perspective on how we felt.
We're trying to move away from that.
So examine whether you are tense in your mind or body.
And if you are,
Realize that you're tense and try to relax.
And investigate whether you're exerting an effort to do something.
And if you are,
Allow that exertion to dissipate.
And if you are,
Realize that you're tense and try to relax.
And if you are,
Allow that exertion to dissipate.
And examine yourself if you're feeling bored.
And if you are,
Allow yourself to move through that anyway and refocus on your breath.
So if we had to evaluate how well you're doing in meditation,
The best way is not whether you are consistently being mindful or calm.
It's whether how you overcome these challenges and obstacles of various distractions,
Investigate and then refocus.
But going back to the original question,
If we had to evaluate whether you're doing this well or not,
I think it's safe to say that you're on the right path.
And I encourage you to be consistent and constant in how you do this.