Tips include: Prayer. Sit upright, relax completely, and then offer a prayer to God. If you are not comfortable with the concept of God, then ask for guidance from your own higher self.
In his famous book, How to Win Friends and Influence People, Dale Carnegie stated that the best way to be thought a fascinating conversationalist is to listen attentively, and with interest. This principle applies also, though of course not in quite the same way, to the practice of prayer.
How long should you meditate? The first rule is, Don't be ruled by what others do. What works well for them may not work for you. Accept that in certain ways you are unique. Here are a few general guidelines...