My internet access is choppy, sorry for the delay in responding.
Self-control and discipline, and self-analytical thought seems to be key for this stuff. If my mind is blown by the wind and by others, it's no wonder it gets lost and I end up having to chase it down. Controlling one's mind/thoughts and steering it into the direction one wants to go, proactive self-direction as opposed to reactive responding. I have quite a bit to consider still from various methods. I am buying a few books on the topics you mentioned.