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Somehow it has become ingrained in us that negative thoughts are more realistic than positive thoughts. This is pure madness, especially since over 90% of what we worry about never happens!
We have to get our heads around the fact that being positive is actually far more realistic than being negative. This is such a difficult concept for most of us to grasp, and we have to purposefully work hard to re-train the brain to think more positively.
Think of it this way: if your body is out of shape you would probably view physical exercise as an effective way to improve its condition—and we must begin looking at the health of our mind in the same way.
Here are 7 valuable exercises that you can start implementing right now to re-train your thinking:
Use Verbal Affirmations EVERY Day
An affirmation is a positive statement that something is already happening, and is a very powerful tool you can use to shift your internal dialogue from negative to positive. Come up with a few statements like “I am creating a beautiful day” or “money and success flow to me” and spend 10 minutes every morning (and every night for extra credit) saying them aloud.
Come up with statements that make the most sense for you, and be sure to state them in the present tense, and in a positive manner. This is self-talk in its highest sense, and can be very effective.
Use Positive Language
When it comes to the language we use, world-renowned author and lecturer Dr. Susan Jeffers says: “It doesn’t matter if we believe the words or not, the mere uttering of them makes the subconscious mind believe them to be true. It is as though the subconscious mind doesn’t know what is true or false, it doesn’t judge, it only reacts to the language that is being fed”.
Many researchers have shown this sentiment to be quite valid, and we must intentionally start using more positive language to shape the worldview of our subconscious mind.
Create a Vision Board
A vision board is the physical manifestation of the life you want to be leading. Find images of the house you desire, the places you want to travel, and the job you crave to work and tack them to a corkboard! Be creative and place words and images that are accurate expressions of your inner-most desires.
Constantly add to your vision board put it somewhere you can see it several times a day– even spend a few moments visualizing what it would be like to be living in this life you created. Isn’t this a better way to spend time than in your usual stress mode?
Surround Yourself with Positive Images
They could be famous quotes, inspiring pictures, or even your affirmations that you write out on note cards. The point is to always have physical reminders of things you deem positive close by. Print these items out and place them by your desk, near your bed, and in the car! When you get stressed out, give a glance to them and you will begin to get perspective on things and your mind will re-focus!
Say “Thank You” 50 Times a Day
Every night before you go to bed, spend 5 minutes saying thank you out loud for the experiences you had that day: the people you interacted with, the work you accomplished, the food you ate, etc… As you do this, really try and feel the gratitude emanate from within.
You can also say thank you 50 times in the morning and get yourself in an extremely grateful mindset for the coming day. These are wonderful practices for becoming more positive!
Listen to Inspirational Talks and Music in the Car
The car is the perfect place to flex your muscle of positive thought! Because many of us spend a lot of time driving, make an effort to listen to music that inspires you and makes you feel good. Purchase motivational and personal development CD’s and play them while driving.
I mentioned Dr. Susan Jeffers above, and I recently listened to her CD “Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway” in my car three times in a row! Have your car become an oasis of learning and start using the time constructively.
Use Positive Thinking While Exercising
If you consistently exercise, this is an excellent time to practice your positive thinking. Say to yourself over and over again: “I am strong and durable” or “I am fast and powerful” and notice the immediate effect these utterances have on your workout. It is absolutely incredible how just saying these words increase your stamina and strength. DM
