10 Mindsets That Have Changed My Life
There are plenty of aspects of our lives that are out of our control. However, I’ve come to realize that the most powerful tool for a successful and happy life is not only within our control, it is only within our control: your mindset.
We may not be able to control external factors that come our way, but we do have the power to decide how we react. The way we perceive ourselves and the world around us dictates our ability to learn, our openness for new opportunities, and the willingness to grow. A healthy mindset holds the power to change your life.
Here are 10 mindset changes that changed mine:
Will I care about this down the road?
When a problem presents itself, stop and ask yourself if it’s a long-term or short-term issue. A lot of times, things that seem like a big deal now might not mean anything in the future, and it’s helpful to put things back into perspective. If it won’t matter in five months, don’t waste more than five minutes thinking about it.
2. I am exactly where I need to be.
We are so focused on where we want to go that we forget to acknowledge how far we’ve come. Accept and appreciate where you are right now, in this exact moment of your life. I truly believe everything happens for a reason, and we need to trust in the unfolding of our lives. Everything works out how it’s intended, and often times, perceived negative experiences are just lessons in disguise.
3. Can I control this?
Stop and ask yourself if the problem at hand is within your ability to change. If yes, do what you need to do in order to solve it. If not, understand that there is nothing you can do and no amount of panic, fear, or plotting of scenarios will change it. If you cannot control the situation, learn to control how it makes you feel.
4. It’s just a thought.
Thoughts enter and leave our minds all day without our control. However, you do not always have to believe or even acknowledge certain thoughts that enter your mind. You may not hold the power to stop intrusive thoughts from arising, but you do have the power to decide whether or not to respond to them. Remember - feelings are not facts. Just because a thought made you feel a certain way, it does not hold the power to turn those feelings into a truth.
5. This feeling is temporary.
All of our emotions naturally come and go. It’s important to remember when you’re in an anxious state that this feeling will not last forever. This moment of anxiety will pass, and you will get through it.
6. Anxiety does not define me.
When you are experiencing feelings of anxiety, remember that it is simply a feeling and not an aspect of your identity. It does not define you, who you are, or your self-worth. It is simply a feeling that comes and goes, nothing more.
7. Trust yourself, and what you have to say.
Trust that you understand yourself and your truth more than anyone else ever could. You know what is right for you, despite when feelings of anxiety try to convince you otherwise. You are strong, powerful, and courageous. Trust that you know the right decisions for you and that the things you say are valuable and meaningful.
8. What can I learn from this?
Not every situation is going to turn out the way you hope. Some situations are put in our lives to be learning tools for the future, and that’s okay. It’s necessary to grow. Instead of thinking “why did this happen?” or “I wish this worked out differently,” try to reframe your mindset to be curious about what you can learn from the experience, and how this learning curve can benefit you in the future.
9. Be comfortable with the uncomfortable
No one ever grew by staying in their comfort zone. Be comfortable with experiences that challenge you to explore new opportunities and feelings.
10. Make it happen.
If you wait for the perfect time to take a chance, or for an opportunity to fall into your lap, you’ll be waiting your whole life for something that will likely never come. Make the conscious choice to take action and make it happen. It might not happen all at once, but small, actionable steps have the power to change your entire situation.
Mindset changes do not happen overnight. As with all areas of self-growth, it takes time, commitment, and patience within yourself. Make a conscious effort every day to reshape a negative mindset into a positive one, but remember to be forgiving with yourself during the process. You’re learning and growing, and that’s a beautiful thing.
Want to take actionable, achievable steps to change your mindset? I would love to help you discover a path towards happiness and fulfillment. Send me a message and let’s connect.
Love and light,
Julia