The easiest way I have found to change my life was to change my thinking. Sounds simple? But how does that work?
Within the general population, there is a strong tendency to focus on the negative. (This is actually scientifically proven. It is called Negativity Bias) I am no exception. Globally, we need to learn to reframe that thinking pattern! Honestly, I believe this tendency is running rampant within our society and is making our lives more miserable. Just look at what is happening in our nation and our world!!
Personally, I can get into a full flow of negativity before I stop myself and ask: What are you doing!!?? Not only am I making myself miserable, but I am also adding to the negativity around me.
Instead of looking for the ‘bad’ in a given situation, I change my thinking to see what good is coming from this challenging circumstance. And what I choose to see in the world is always reflected back to me. In other words, if I begin to look for something to be miserable, I will find it. The repercussions of that mindset are endless — in myself and in those around me.
So, how do I change that cycle? Change my thinking! Try looking at situations from a different angle: What is the Universe trying to tell/guide me? What can I find to be grateful for during this tragedy? (Read my posts on how this change in thinking got me through the loss I experienced from a wildfire).
One of my teachers advocates practicing non-judgment and gossip. Even that small but challenging practice helps change your thinking, thus changing your life!
David Ault’s April Science of Mind Magazine article, “You See What You Look For,” suggests stopping to avoid falling into inattention and starting to pay attention.
Here are the steps David suggests:
Create Your Attentive Journey
- When conflict shows up, attention invites you to see what’s really happening.
- When beauty appears, attention invites you to linger.
- When fatigue hits, attention asks what you believe about rest.
- When joy rises, attention encourages you to savor it.
Also, to follow up on David’s steps, I would add one more: Stop and look for the blessings or ways to be grateful for the ‘good’ in the situation and for what you are gaining from it — which is what I finally did when our house burned down.
What can you find in your current challenges that can help you change your thinking? Dwell on that! Not only will you help yourself, but you will help change the consciousness of the world around you.