Cognitive Shifting #2
When your thoughts get stuck in a troublesome rut, you need strategies and tools to regain clarity. Put a few of these in your toolbox:
- Yes. Most negative thoughts center around “No.” Flip it. Counter with as many “Yes” affirmations as possible.
- Breathe. Ten breaths in through the nose and out through pursed lips. Keep going till it helps. If you struggle with this, check out the Breathwrk app.
- Get up and get out. Step out on the patio for fresh air; go for a drive to somewhere or maybe nowhere; go for a walk. But, get up and get out.
- Accept and choose. Pull that thought of the mire and accept it. Acknowledge it. Name it. Then, work to set it aside and choose replacement thoughts.
- I am thankful for…big things, small moments…just delve into gratitude.
- Pray. If you are flustered about another person, pray for them what you would pray for yourself…love, joy, peace, health, wealth, wisdom & happiness. (Depending on the person, this is definitely an advanced skill!) But, it is an absolute game changer for better thoughts.
- Move it, move it! Get on your stationery bike, go for a walk, stretch, lift weights, turn on the exercise video, or any form of movement you like to do. Set a goal of at least 10 minutes.
- Ten places I’d like to…Imagine 10 places you’d like to sit, walk, eat, visit, etc. Naturally, you may take your mind to the beach, the river, your favorite restaurant, etc. By the time you think through this list, you’ll begin to feel better.
- One. If you are flustered with too much and clarity eludes you, think of one. One task, one thing. One hour, one day. One. What is the one thing you can focus on right now?
- Enough. Click here for a brief blog post on receiving enough for today.
Each of these ideas lends itself to pages more of explanation or hours more of conversation. But perhaps two or three of these ideas resonate with you, and motivate you to experiment.
Worth Repeating
Change your thoughts and you change your world.
-Norman Vincent Peale
