“For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.” — Proverbs 23:7
It’s so true, isn’t it? This Bible verse could be applied non-religiously, course, and often is. Our thoughts often determine our emotions, outlooks, actions, reactions and in turn, goals, accomplishments and more.
By making a conscious effort to direct your thoughts positively, you can change your entire life. Or, as Dan Harris wrote in his book, at least become 10% happier.
Which leads me to the first way I find those pops of positivity throughout my day — podcasts. After writing his book, Dan started a podcast by the same name. It’s focused on the way meditation positively affects people’s lives (more on that in a moment.)
Podcasts are one of the best ways you can fill your brain with positivity. I love listening to inspiring women who are making a difference in the world on some of my favorites. Great stories of entrepreneurship and success also give me inspiration and motivation. If I need a kick in the pants, I know “How I Built This” is a great one to turn on.
In the same respect, I listen to sermons. Sure, I got to church every week, but I miss my old church and love hearing their sermons on say, a Monday morning to get the week started off right. Most churches have their sermons in podcast form so you can listen super easily. Check out Tim Keller, NCC or search through the religious podcasts.
Next up? Bible verses at regular intervals. I have a few items around the house — a decoration in my kitchen, a word print in my room, on several t-shirts, a verse on a necklace and a chalkboard that I regularly change out with a different verse. Just integrating God’s word into my life is a constant reminder of that truth to cling to throughout the day. I may not be able to quote you chapter and verse, but I remember the words and that’s how I hear from God.
Music can also be a huge mood boost. Some people can’t work with podcasts or music but if you can, get this stuff going in your earbuds. Personally, Christian music is what does it for me, but you have to find what works for you. Steer clear of any downers (love Chris Stapleton, but some of his stuff is downright depressing!) Upbeat or positive lyrics can truly alter the chemistry in your brain!
Lastly, meditation! This is a new one that I will have more to say about in another post. Technically, I shouldn’t include it because I’m only on Day 4 but…I’m excited to see what it does for me. After hearing about the 10th person I know recommend the Headspace app, I finally dove in. Apparently I downloaded it a year ago and never did it! I’m running through their 10 free days (no missing!) and doing it in the evenings around 5:30pm when my anxiety is usually sky high. So far, so good! I have a hard time sitting still but overall, I only get good vibes from it. On today’s episode of 10% happier, I heard meditating twice a day is when it really starts to kick in. We’ll see if I get to that point!
Last Thoughts
Changing the direction of your thoughts is NOT easy. I’ve struggled with the demons of anxiety and negativity my entire life. I STILL struggle but as they say…nothing changes if nothing changes. Taking pro-active steps to move yourself in a better direction is time well spent. You won’t see it in a day but over time, you will notice it.
So try to fill your day with positive vibes using these suggestions or come up with your own. As you think, so you are 🙂