We’ve written in the past about staying positive in a negative world, but sometimes our battle isn’t with the world at large but within ourselves. Our own negative thoughts or feelings of doubt are more of an enemy than worldwide circumstances. When everything is going exactly as planned, or at least close enough to the plan, it doesn’t really matter what’s going on outside our own little corner of the world. The greater challenge is when the struggle is just within our own mind.
We can overcome our own uncertainties through willful control of our thoughts. The book the Secret has been so popular lately because it teaches us just that. It teaches how to control your thoughts and bring about desired results through more positive thoughts.
I have struggled lately, not because of unemployment rates or rising fuel costs but because I am a natural born worrier and like to be in control. It’s a toxic combination when it comes to have positive, hopeful thoughts. I do have a system for turning away the thoughts that come naturally when times are rough. I’d like to share it with you.
Often I will wake up and my first thoughts are about how I will get through this day. I have had hard times in the past but right now it has been less than 3 months since my husband died, I have concerns about my personal finances and huge concerns about how I will keep three boys ages 9 to 14 out of trouble while I work. Those are the natural thoughts that come into my head, I can’t help that they get there, but I can get them out of my head.
When I awaken with negative, worrisome thoughts, I say in my head, “NO!” I stop them by telling myself, “No! I will not think that.” We can’t control what comes into our minds subconsciously but we can change it.
Next I replace the thoughts with hopeful thoughts. I express gratitude in my head for all that is right with my life. I have a wonderful support system of family and friends. I have a roof over my head and food in the pantry and huge business possibilities on the horizon. Today I am going to make a positive difference in the growth of our business and the future is very bright. I even focus on just the good things that will come about today such as the sun is finally shining after days of rain or the fact that I can choose my work hours and that means we’ll fit in a family trip to the lake before the day is over.
It’s all about stopping negative thoughts before they turn into a huge dialog. Change the conversation with yourself to one you’d like to have with another person. No one wants to hear a sob story, so treat your internal musings like a great uplifting conversation with a good friend. Before you know it, the despairing thoughts will no longer creep in and you will be able to make hopeful, uplifting thoughts about a great life your reality.
The thing to remember is that the more we think positive thoughts in our conscious hours the more those seep into our subconscious. This action will deter me from waking with negative thoughts.
Kim Wierman is the co-founder of Waves of Gratitude, an online inspirational jewelry retailer. The Waves of Gratitude community and products werewas created to serve as a forum for uplifting and inspirational messages