The mind is the most effective tool we have to achieve the life we desire. How we control such a powerful machine has been a mystery to many. Current research claims the mind generates over 600 thoughts a day, such a heavy load!
Simplicity is what we use to survive, utilising tools that are effective and conclusive will spawn long term change. All you need is commitment to be in the moment. Many times in life I have overreacted to a situation which in time, with a little guidance has reformed itself. Not to dismiss anxiety, the flight or flight response is indeed certified.
So where do we start? The conscious mind, that little nugget that contains such things as sensations, memories, feelings, fantasies, are all privy to our current awareness. Sounds like a large serving of mindfulness, which can seem a little daunting to the tinkerer. So here are a few recommendations that can be employed to help you through the mire:
STALK YOUR THOUGHTS
Slowly become more aware of your thoughts throughout the day. Consciously analyse negative thoughts and establish the root not the cause of thought, eg: “I’m in a terrible mood so I berated another driver because they were too slow.” At this point consciously wish them peace and harmony then recognise the sensation of relief. You have just let go of all that animosity. You may be having negative thoughts about yourself, stop and replace words such as “I am not sure” to “I will make a conscious effort.” There is no quick fix only commitment.
JOURNALING
I know this is not for everyone but neither is your journal. Gratitude is always a good starting point, when we acknowledge what we are thankful for, we then receive energy in return, along with an abundance of positivity and happiness. We are the living embodiment of our thoughts. There is no right or wrong approach to journaling, only clarity.
OTHER PEOPLE’S OPINIONS
Everything about who we believe we are is just a collection of stories. Societal, family, personal, all unbroken stories. These stories provide a sense of self i.e. ‘the ego!’ There is a saying that: “Things are as they are because of the stories people are telling themselves.”
I personally have been through many transformations during this lifetime and the biggest resistance has been from others. We need to become the witness of our story only then can we control the narrative. The majority of negativity is normally perpetuated by those who lack confidence within themselves. Look at your immediate circle and ask yourself what value do they bring into my world?
We are all at different stages and some of your nearest and dearest can be the scariest! Choose the right person for the conversation, if you don’t have someone, go ahead and find one. There are 7.8 billion on the planet.