Well, I strive for continual. I try to remain aware of my
   surroundings as I engage in tasks that I am focused on without
   the typical fight-or-flight that sometimes pairs up with being
   aware of one's surroundings.

   Takes a lot of practice. It only works when my surroundings are
   quiet and calm. When there's people and it's noisy... well...
   then it's much harder to maintain clarity of mind. At those
   times, I focus on whatever my task is at hand.

   If I'm doing something with my hands, I focus on that, and turn
   the "eyelids" of my ears off as best I can. I don't ignore
   things very well but I try.

   If I am engaging with people, I ask myself, "Who am I serving
   right now?" and they get my full attention while I remain aware
   of pathways to solve their problem and eventually escape to a
   quieter place where I can then go back into my quiet-calm
   surroundings.

   I suffered from panic attacks/anxiety problems as a kid. Had a
   little biofeedback lessons when I was 11, so I've been
   practicing it ever since in my own way because, well, I don't
   like the idea of medicating away anxiety unless I must. So far,
   so good