What is your focus, Today?
Posted by Kathy Underwood on Mon, Oct 17, 2011 @ 05:00 AM
What we focus on grows. We all know that and have probably experienced having really good and bad days depending on what we are focusing on. When we wake in the morning and feel grumpy and tired it is likely that we will see the day through our negative filter, so we will probably have a tough day, tough evening, toss and turn at night and wake again and do it all over again the next day unless you win the lottery or change what you’re ruminating and stewing about.
Choosing what we focus on is one thing we have the power to change. I joined a new cycling team and I am aware of my own negative, critical thinking because I feel intimidated. I choose to feel this way so the good news is, I have the power to change my thinking. When I find myself being critical, I say to myself “Isn’t that interesting” I teach my clients to say the same thing because it breaks the thought cycle and allows something different to happen. I can then usually chuckle to myself and make the choice to think positively about a situation.
Take the first negative thought that comes up for you and be willing to say something different. Here’s what I do when that pesky, negative thought jumps in and dominates my thinking. I add to my internal dialogue positive, reality based comments. A negative thought that jumps in even though I don’t want it to, say’s “You are going to get dropped in the parking lot. Why are you even going?” Here is my response, “Maybe, but I love to ride and I will continue to get better.” It is not about making the negative thought go away but addressing the negative, critical voice and adding truthful, encouraging responses that allow you to keep going after what you want. My response is right for me because it makes me feel just a little bit better. Create responses that help you to feel a little bit better and a little bit better a step at a time, so that you keep going after the things that make you feel really good.
Step in now to change how you think, feel, and behave, a step at a time. We all need help, support, and guidance to make change and move forward in our lives. If you would like more information or want to set-up an appointment, feel free to contact me.
Photo: Seemann, http://mrg.bz/4bZVOP
