Since we are talking about mindset this month, we would be remiss if we didn't address the word/thought connection (I don't know why but writing this made me start singing the "Rainbow Connection" in my head). Our thoughts are often fueled by what we tell ourselves, whether it be silently or out loud. It stands to reason that if we want our thoughts to change, our words need a makeover as well. Yes, we can say encouraging things to help keep ourselves going, but far too often, we are the ones tearing ourself down.
If you did the exercise a few weeks ago, you may have been surprised by the thoughts you had. How much of it was negative self-talk?
This year my son's school has had the theme, "Speak Life.'' (Psalm 19:14 (NIV) - "May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.") He came home the first week of school excited to show me a video on YouTube. He brought up the video for TobyMac's "Speak Life" - and was so excited to show me how speaking good words helped us to be better people and help others.
The truth is, we are motivated by life giving words. I'm sure this next sentence is repeat for me, but it needs to be said. If we were the kind of friends to others that we are to ourselves, we would need new friends.
1. Ask yourself - If my best friend were in the same situation I were, what would I say to them? We far too often give ourselves permission to belittle ourselves, when we would never speak to someone else in the same way. So start by speaking to yourself, the way you would speak to a good friend.
2. Focus on your strengths - When your tempted to bully yourself and start a hyper focus fest on the ways in which you suck, take a moment to write down your strengths - the best things about you and begin to look at that.
If I've learned one thing from reading books from authors like Dr. Caroline Leaf or Carol Dweck its that the more you think something, the stronger that thought becomes and the strong thoughts are the "go-to" thoughts as we navigate in life. So instead of focusing our thoughts on the negative, flip the script and focus on the best things.
If you don't know what your strengths are - gather your friends and ask them. Take notes if you have to, but leave that time, knowing your best qualities. Change the filter - you are awesome!
3. Praise God for You and Your Life - A thankful heart prepares the way for God. Praising him and thanking him has amazing power to open our hearts to receive from God. God created us, he knows us and honoring him and connecting with him only enhances how we live.
Go into your day with a beautiful view of you. Next week we will get into the why, which I think is the last remaining piece in this topic discussion, so come on back! See you Wednesday!
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