The path to enlightenment uses many authentic methods, practices and meditations to suit the practitioner.  The Buddha turned the Wheel of the Dharma in order to suit the different mentalities of every being. So, the practices of Buddhism vary in order to suit the different mentalities and dispositions of every being.  Certain practitioners will find one practice more beneficial than others. This is what allows the dharma to be vast and profound.  One should seek out a lineage and teacher who will bestow authentic instructions on meditation and practice. This will develop one’s enlightened attitude.

Apart from meditation practice, it is useful for practitioners to acquire merit, practice virtue and purify misdeeds.  Acquiring merit is through mental and material offerings to others.  Practicing virtuous deeds calms our mind and, like the accumulation of merit, creates causes for good in the future.  Purifying misdeeds is done through practice. 

By performing merit and virtue, bad obstacles will decrease. Good conditions and situations will naturally increase.  Otherwise, having a lot of negative Karma can hinder spiritual progress.

Another important part of the path is study. The practitioner should devote some time to learning the dharma and understand its relative meaning.

Buddhist practice is done gradually, in stages.  So, far example, one should not try to perform a heroic Bodhisattva act (like giving up one's body) if one still possesses an ordinary mind. 

First, one must use one’s ego as a tool.  Then it can be put on a leash and trained.  The practitioner cannot expect to gain the realizations of a Bodhisattva instantly. Only when one gains realization can one perform Bodhisattva actions and activity.