:salamext:
This is really helpful because sometimes during Dhikr my mind starts wondering around. So I found this in the Darul Uloom Deoband Fatwa Section. There are more helpful tips.
"What must one meditate on while reciting Istighfaar, Durood Shareef, the Third Kalimah, Laa ilaaha illallah and during the recitation of the Qur'an Shareef?
SUMMARY OF REPLY: Bismihi Ta'ala
Respected Brother! Assalamu Alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuhu
When reciting Istighfaar imagine that you are completely soiled with the filth of sins from head to toe. With the recitation of Istighfaar your sins are gradually being washed away. Think that just as a dirty cloth which is left under a running tap is gradually purified of the dirt and filth, likewise with the barakat of Istighfaar my sins are being washed away and my heart is being purified.
While reciting Durood Shareef imagine that the angels are presenting the gift of Durood Shareef from me, a sinner, to Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) and Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) is pleased with it.
While making zikr of the third kalimah and reciting subhanallah meditate that Allah Ta'ala is free of every blemish, upon reciting alhamdulillah that every perfection and greatness solely belongs to Allah Ta'ala. Meditate upon saying la ilaha illalah that there is none worthy of giving one's heart to and worthy of total allegiance besides Allah Ta'ala.
When you say Allahu Akbar that Allah Ta'ala is greater than everything that I have perceived and even greater that what I have not perceived.
During recitation of the Qur'an ponder that you are reciting to Allah Ta'ala. Recite as a child recites to his Ustaad (with utmost care and full concentration).
Was Salaam (Tarbiyatut Taalibeen pg.78) "
http://darululoom-deoband.com/english/index.htm
wasalam
-SI-