A thought that is fed emotion gains a super strength. From there it has the ability to create possibilities or limitations, depending on the quality of the feeling. Experiencing doubt is a mental virus that spreads through all aspects of your life. A thought as simple as “I don’t think I can do this” starts to attract other defeating thoughts until you begin believing them.
Changing a particular way of thinking is not going to happen quickly, and that’s a good thing. While you practice positive thoughts layers of your own mind will be uncovered, as you get to know the REAL you.
The authentic self that is innately good, healthy, happy and free of worry. It took years of past experiences to accumulate your self doubt so be patient as you begin to shift toward a mindset of belief.
It’s time to start ripping out the negative weed
and replace it with an affirming seed.
What to Do in Moments of Doubt
All goals must have a plan, discipline is a fundamental principle of that plan. Lasting behavior change takes constant action toward becoming the healthier version of you. If you want to be, do, and think better than you are today it takes practice.
Practice thinking with confidence, practice making the optimal choice, practice being aware of your thoughts and actions. If you are struggling to gain control over thoughts start by shifting your mind’s attention.
Here is a list of questions, affirmations, and tips that will help you slowly begin thinking healthier thoughts about yourself. Ask yourself these questions when the mental chatter becomes overbearing, and continue asking until you reach something positive.
There are no right or wrong answers.
Only responses that either propel you toward your goal or hold you back from it.
Questions: Check in with the mind
Inner dialogue: Am I listening to my inner critic or an inner companion? Which voice is bringing me closer to the mindset I wish to acquire?
Affirming the life you want for yourself: Am I focusing on what I want or what I’m afraid of? If the focus is on all that can go wrong, what are three things that can go right?
Practice healthy disciplines: What can I do to start and end my day on a positive note? How can I stay on track daily even when life gets busy?
Tips: Check in with your body
Importance of posture
Slouching is a good indicator that your thoughts are running wild. Take a deep breath, straighten out your back, exhale, relax your jaw, and drop your shoulders.
Fueling your body vs filling it up
Plan your meals so you aren’t stuck eating something that will leave you tired, sluggish, and further from feeling better about yourself. Fruits, veggies, and nuts are quick snacks to help give you more energy. And of course, stay hydrated, drink plenty of water throughout the day especially when working out.
Intentional movement
Working out is good for your mind, body, and soul. If you don’t have the time for a workout you can always go for a walk outside, stretch out your body, or dance around to your favorite playlist. Reward your muscles for keeping up with your demands.
Past present future self
Remember where you came from, but don’t live in those memories. Let go of your mistakes and learn from them for your future self. Consider how you want your future to unfold and the actions you’re taking to get there.
Be present with the people around you and the places you visit. Rather than focusing on how long is left on the journey to your goals, express gratitude for where you are and how far you’ve come. Appreciate the moments that fly right by.
Practices: Implementing simple and fun healthy habits
It’s important to prioritize your time wisely, especially for having fun. This way you don’t feel guilty for indulging and you still get things accomplished. You deserve a healthy life balance and you also have to be the one to create it.
Do something FUN
When was the last time you did something INTENTIONALLY because it made you happy?
Moving your body and taking care of your mind can feel fun, but there’s a deeper meaning of health behind it. It’s easy to sit behind television and allow a program to make you happy, so challenge yourself to find happiness within an activity. Try something like coloring, journaling, listening to music, or anything else that makes you engage. Prioritize time for something that will help elevate your mood. If you can’t think of anything think about what you loved to do as a kid and go from there.
Stillness between activities(meditation)
Transitioning your mindset from busy to relaxed or sleeping to active is essential to achieve optimal results.
Take the time to pay attention to your mental chatter and the emotional direction it is pulling you in. When you have a handle on your mood there is a better sense of control over whatever situation arises. Be prepared mentally, physically, and emotionally for what you are transitioning to throughout the day.
Visualization
Set aside 10-20 minutes to set intentions for the day
Each day you are given a fresh set of opportunities to be happier, healthier and more successful than yesterday. To create that life you must visualize what it looks like and the ways it can unfold. Think about how you want to feel and how you wish to impact others. Planning your day each morning makes it easier to adapt to various obstacles. Consider the choices you can easily make today that will push you closer to your best self until you’re there!
These questions, tips, and practices are a great starting point to begin shifting your mindset toward confidence. Overcoming self-doubt won’t happen quickly, but in time and with consistent practice you will begin to see massive changes. Be relentless in your pursuit of confidence and peace of mind. Keep pushing your mind into a positive space until it turns into a habit. Watch how easily your life begins to flow.
Moving Through Life With Confidence
Planting seeds of faith takes time and consistent practice, so does becoming aware of where self-doubt lives. So check in with your body: what does it need right now? Keep asking yourself the questions that bring you closer to living with confidence and clarity. Visualize the lifestyle, feelings, and circumstances you want to walk through in life. Allow yourself to be still so that you spirit can catch up to how busy your mind moves.
LOVE.HEAL.GROW.