adraw - Great question and insights. I wish I knew the answers. I am learning and experimenting with this myself. It seems difficult to build that bridge between waking thoughts and dream thoughts in a reliable way. Some people seem to be able to do this very naturally, for others or most (like me) it does not appear to be as natural, and takes much work. I'm often so clueless while dreaming. It seems there is no reliable way for everyone, we all have our own approach that works best.

For the last few days, I have been experimenting with a new approach: I have been working very hard on *constantly* repeating to myself my acknowledgment that I am always AWARE, and my intention that I will recognize my awareness while dreaming. Just last night, I had a dream that I was driving down a highway. While driving, I repeatedly passed road signs that read, "Be Aware." I took these signs to mean "Be aware/safe while driving." It never occurred to me where these messages actually came from, and what they really meant! Hence, no lucidity. Go figure.

I'm going to keep at it for a while longer, I will let you and everyone know if this approach ever results in lots of lucid dreams. I know we'd all like to know the answer to your question!