We are all familiar with the saying “you are what you eat,” but have you thought about what you become, what you do, and what you say because of the thoughts you have?
Here’s a test. Go to Google and type “motivational quotes” or “encouraging words” and check out the results. You will probably find hundreds of options.
Why is that? Words that enter our minds are powerful.
“Man must evolve for all human conflict a method which rejects revenge, aggression, and retaliation.
The foundation of such a method is love.”
- Martin Luther King Jr.
Dr. King is greatly known and admired for his “loving your enemies” approach. He changed history because his thought process was different than that of those around him. The way to love those who hurt you begins with positive thinking.
Is it easy? Probably not. Okay, no, it just isn’t, but it’s possible. Dr. King is proof.
So where do you start? How can you instill a positive outlook when you face an enormous workload, struggle with family conflict, report to a grumpy boss, or your kids just won’t listen?
First, breathe. Then, stop and ask yourself a few questions.
What is filling my mind?
Do you listen to calming music or podcasts that encourage a relaxed mind? Try switching out that podcast teaching you a new skill once a week to something that helps to clear your mind of stress and worry.
Where does my heart wander to?
Take a minute on this one. When you have the chance to stop and think, what do you typically think about? Do you go over the to-do list? Do you play those tapes in your head of the last argument you had and how you wished you would have responded? Instead, think about something you are thankful for. Grumpy boss? Replace with thoughts like, ‘I have a job that allows me to pay my mortgage.’ Relationship conflict? Instead think, ‘I forgive them, yes, even if they are wrong. I choose to show them love and kindness which will bring peace to everyone involved.’
What will I do with my thoughts?
Choose to use your newfound positive thinking to make changes in how you react. Instead of arguing, take a deep breath and think about what positive things could turn the entire situation around. That’s what Dr. King did. Continue to remember how he changed history with his positive thinking which caused positive actions.
What will I do with the words formed from my thoughts?
You can use your words to tear someone down or build someone up. Words can be like rocks and you get to choose to hurt someone or make them smile. Next time you are in a public place, give a stranger a sincere compliment. It may feel strange at first, but the more you do it and experience the reaction you get, the more motivation you will have. Your words can be powerful.
Here are some tips for staying positive:
● Write affirmations or inspiring words on a Post-It note and put it on your monitor or bathroom mirror.
● Download an app that will send inspirational and motivational notifications. Try Motivate: Daily Motivation or iWish — Life Goals, Wish List, Bucket List which allows you to set goals and also helps you stay on track.
● Stay away from sugar. Johns Hopkins experts report that the sugar rollercoaster of highs and lows can greatly affect your mood. So, limit the amount of sugar intake to stay positive and keep those negative thoughts at bay.
● Wake up, stretch and be thankful to live a new day. Starting the day choosing to have a positive attitude will set the tone for the sort of day you want to have.
● Don’t sweat the small stuff. Really—just let it go. Did someone cut you off in traffic? Let it go. Let. It. Go.
● Prayer and meditation. Whether you have a cozy spot or find peace during a good run, make time for prayer and meditation. Clear your mind, breathe, and let go of the negativity that you’ve allowed to linger.
● Surround yourself with those that bring joy and peace to your world. Maybe you have that one friend known as a “Negative Nelly.” It’s time to set some boundaries and let her know you are working at keeping a positive outlook, and that her words oftentimes come across as negative. Boundaries are good. It may help to redirect them to their thoughts.
It takes effort and discipline to choose joy and to quickly dismiss the negative thoughts. Still not motivated? Let us share with you three important reasons in choosing positive thinking over negative.
- Increased life span. Yep, that’s right, positive thinking will increase the likelihood of a longer life.
- Stronger relationships. Now, who doesn’t want that? Just think about the last argument you had. If you or the other person would have had a positive reaction instead of a negative one, how might the end result have changed things?
- Strengthens your body. It’s a proven fact that positivity reduces stress hormones by releasing neurohormones, which encourage the body to heal itself. #winning
"We can complain because rose bushes have thorns,
or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses.” - Anonymous
Our hope is that you will find at least one nugget that will inspire you and those around you.
Have a favorite quote or encouraging word? We’d love to hear from you!
Please comment below.
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