You may not be conscious of it, but your thoughts form your life. How you perceive the world and your role in it influences how you feel, behave, and live. Although we can’t just be sunny and cheerful all of the time, how we speak about ourselves sets the tone for everything we do.
If you are consumed by negativity, the universe will be colored by that dark cloud. It is important to learn how to break the cycle of self-sabotage by learning how to transform negative self-talk into positive self-talk. To flip the thinking process, follow these recommendations.
Recognize Your Triggers
Before you can put an end to your poor thinking, you must first understand it. Spend time each day for a week paying attention to the ideas that come to mind. Make a note of any self-criticisms you come across.
You may also want to make a list of the types of behaviors that typically result from such thought. When feeling down on themselves, some people turn to comfort food, while others become irritable with those around them. Self-awareness is important for habit change.
End All or Nothing Views
Almost nothing is really either one way or the other. Using phrases like “never” and “always” is generally an indication that you are having unrealistic thoughts. Keep an eye out for convincing yourself that you should do something or marking yourself negatively.
You don’t always make mistakes, and you aren’t a loser. Remind yourself of these admonitions by reminding yourself that you are often forgetful or that you are going through a difficult time right now.
Brainstorm Awesome Words
Thinking of pleasant and vibrant words such as in positive affirmations is a fast way to get yourself out of a rut. You can either make a mental list or write them down. Although it will seem to be too simple to be effective, you will be shocked at how easily your mood changes with this technique.
Thinking of energetic words and phrases will change the attitude and serve as a catalyst for positive thinking.
Be Grateful
Another effective approach is to use appreciation to distract yourself from negative self-talk. You can’t be bashing yourself while thinking about all the good things you have in your life.
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List the big things that will change your life, but don’t forget about the little things. A grateful mindset will bring life into perspective and set you on the road to positivity.
Consider the Worst
That’s right. Consider the worst-case scenario to put your concerns into perspective. Then, take a moment to consider whether or not the condition is really that bad, as well as the possibility of it occurring.
Very frequently, the worst-case scenario isn’t as horrific as we make it out to be in our hearts, and it’s not even likely to happen. Gaining insight makes it much easier to cast aside fear and doubt in order to be more positive in our lives.
Be Your Own Friend
When you’re feeling down on yourself, think about what you’d say to your best friend or a loved one in the same situation. Most likely, you will never speak to someone you care for in this manner.
Consider the language you would use with a child. You just couldn’t imagine destroying a child’s spirit with such chastisement. You do not handle yourself in this manner as well. Instead, tell yourself what you would tell a child or a friend. Then put the words into action.
These strategies are actually very simple, but they can take some time and practice to incorporate into your daily routine. Continue to practice, and you will see a change in your negative self-talk and in your life.
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