Millions of thoughts go through our heads during the day (and night). Some are inspiring, and some can be destructive. Often, we don’t know which is which. So, my advice: Don’t invite your thoughts to a party!
What do I mean by that?
When I was involved in the fundamental Christian movement, we were taught that some thoughts come from God and some come from the devil! Simple explanation! But in reality, those thoughts come from me—from my fears, frustrations, uninformed opinions, and old belief systems. Honestly, negative thinking can be a bit addictive!
In an article by Skill Path’s Author, Brenda R. Smyth, she shares:
The human brain has a natural tendency to give weight to negative experiences or interactions more than positive ones. Psychologists refer to this as negativity bias, and it causes people to focus on one bad thing in a mountain of good things.
To be blunt, your thoughts can lie to you. They can exaggerate, embellish, and steer you in the wrong direction! But too often, I falter and choose to invite my negative thoughts to a party in my head. This practice can add to frustration, depression, and withdrawal into my own little space. Not a nice place to be.
In an interview printed in March/April Unity Magazine, Pam Grout tells us:
You can’t really control thoughts. It’s pointless to resist them. But you also don’t have to invite them in for martinis. The subconscious tends to parrot old paradigms and believe in past patterns. So if you start with small intentions, the subconscious is less likely to put up its dukes. For example, if you ask for a million dollars by sundown tomorrow, your subconscious is likely to roll its eyes and say, Eat my shorts.
Pam goes on to explain that Spirit will continue to show us opportunities and gifts if we don’t block them by hanging on to old belief systems. Our job is to keep the pathways of our brains open!
Sometimes, it is helpful to come from a position of curiosity. Asking ourselves why we are thinking specific thoughts (especially if they are harmful or about another person or people) can prevent negative thoughts from turning into judgments. This includes not judging myself!
I also revert to gratitude statements when I realize that I have invited my thoughts to a party. It is hard to continue ruminating or judging when you are focusing on what you are grateful for.
How do you stop inviting your thoughts to a party inside your head?