5 WAYS TO SHIFT YOUR MINDSET

How many of you have or maybe currently are stuck in a negative mindset? It happens to the best of us for various reasons. (Overthinking in decision making, thinking about past events, maybe someone is angry with us, fear of the future, negative self-talk or excessive self-criticism, jumping to conclusions, self-blame, always assuming the worst, going through a traumatic experience, or struggle with OCD, anxiety, depression or another mental health struggle).

Getting stuck in a negative or limiting mindset can be frustrating. I know. I’ve been there. It’s not a pretty place to be. It can hinder our progress in whatever we are trying to accomplish. But it’s important to remember that we have the power to change our thoughts and perspective. We have a choice.

Here are five things I want to share with you what has helped me shift my mindset and get back on track.

PRACTICE GRATITUDE. And what I mean by that is be grateful for your blessings and take action on it. Take time each day to focus on what you are grateful for, no matter how small it may seem. Go the extra mile and act on it. Say Thank You to those around you. Appreciate your blessings and be mindful of all that is good in your life. This can help shift your focus from what’s not working to what is and increase feelings of positivity and contentment.

EXERCISE. Regular physical activity has been shown to have a positive impact on your mental health and well-being. Just a short walk, walking up and down a set of steps for a few minutes or dancing to a song or two can help break the cycle of negative thoughts and boost your mood. So, take a few minutes to change up your physical activity and see what happens.

CONNECT WITH OTHERS. Spending time with others we care about or reaching out to a supportive friend or neighbor can help combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. Building strong relationships and social support networks is critical for mental health.

REFRAME YOUR NEGATIVE THOUGHTS. This might sound a little harder than what it actually is. It takes some intentional change, but it can be done. Challenge negative or limiting beliefs by asking yourself questions like, “Is this thought helpful or hurtful? “or “What’s the evidence for or against this negative thinking?”  Challenge yourself by the same questions you might ask someone else who might be in those negative thoughts. Try to look at situations from a more positive and constructive perspective.

ENGAGE IN ACTVITIES YOU ENJOY. Doing things that bring you joy and happiness whether it’s reading, knitting, writing in your journal, listening to music, going to the gym…or taking photos of nature, can help boost your mood and provide a much-needed break from those negative thoughts. Pursuing hobbies and interests can also provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

REMEMBER, shifting your mindset takes time, practice and patience but with persistence and the right tools, you can break from those negative patterns and cultivate a more positive and fulfilling outlook on life.

HERE ARE SOME BIBLE VERSES THAT CAN OFFER ENCOURAGEMENT AND GUIDANCE WHEN YOU’RE STUCK IN A MINDSET.

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is pure, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, if anything is excellent of praiseworthy- think about such things.

Isaiah 41:10 God says, “to fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

1 Peter 5: 7 Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about you.

Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

Using these verses and incorporating prayer and reflection on God’s word into your daily routine can help you overcome negative thoughts and develop a more positive and confident outlook on life.

Here are five books that can also be helpful.

THE POWER OF POSITIVE THINKING by Norman Vincent Peale

MINDSET-THE NEW PSYCHOLOGY of SUCCESS by Carol S. Dweck

THE HAPPINESS PROJECT by Gretchen Rubin

THE 7 HABITS of HIGHLY EFFECTIVE PEOPLE by Stephen Covey

THE ART of POSSIBILITY by Benjamin Zander and Rosamund Zander

These books offer practical and proven strategies for shifting negative thoughts and developing a more positive outlook on life.

In closing, I hope this episode has shed some helpful information on the importance of recognizing and shifting a negative mindset. It’s not always easy, but with practice and persistence, anyone can develop a more positive and growth-oriented perspective. Remember, your thoughts shape your reality, so choose them wisely. I encourage you to continue exploring this topic and finding ways to cultivate a positive outlook in your own life. If you are interested in a free 45-minute call for more clarity and encouragement, you can reach me at 865-281-1281 or laura@lauraconradchristianlifecoach.com

Thank you for tuning in and I look forward to bringing you more engaging content in the future.

Until next time,

TRUST YOUR JOURNEY. TRUST THE CHANGE. AND TRUST GOD WILL SEE YOU THROUGH.

©️HerJourneyTowardsChange 2023

All Rights Reserved