Memory of a good deed
To remind oneself of any good deed that you have done in the past can be also a very good way to start to meditate. In each and every life there are always some moments that we appreciate ourselves very much. It could be any moment you helped somebody with a particular condition and you succeeded happily. Any devotion, contribution or sacrifice that is very deep and touched your heart can bring brightness to your mind. Some good intentions may have Initially been seen by others as impossible or uninteresting. But you saw its importance, so you tried and in the end made it happened. Just remind yourself of that moment or the feeling you had after you can accomplished it, and your mind will brighten. Stillness can be developed better with bright mind.