Begin simply and faithfully: set a regular time, stand before God with reverence, make the sign of the cross, and pray with Scripture and the Church’s received prayers. Speak honestly to God, listen to His Word, and return even when attention or feeling is weak.
What the Church teaches
Prayer is communion with God, not a technique for producing a mood. It includes praise, thanksgiving, repentance, petition, intercession, and silence before the Lord. Fixed prayers school the heart in the faith of the Church, while personal words bring our actual life before God; the two support rather than compete with each other.
Live it this week
For two weeks, keep a ten-minute morning and evening rule: the sign of the cross, the Lord’s Prayer, one psalm, a short Gospel passage, thanksgiving, repentance, and intercession. Keep the rule modest enough to repeat, and review it with your spiritual father before expanding it.
When personal guidance matters
Distraction does not make prayer worthless, and dryness does not prove that God has abandoned you. Avoid extreme vigils or large self-appointed rules that damage health or duties; persistent distress, sleeplessness, or intrusive thoughts may also need professional care.
Sibhat prepared this original answer from the sources listed above. For personal or sacramental guidance, speak with your parish priest.