Did you know that how we think changes how we live? Biologically, a thought and corresponding action creates a neural path way in our brain, and this is strengthened each time we repeat the thought and action. So how you respond to someone, or that habit you just can’t seem to break, are often inbuilt into our brains over time!
The fact we can change how we think and strengthen positive thought patterns means that we can choose health, happiness and recovery. That’s not to say we live in denial of our fear, trauma or pain – often our behaviour or thought patterns have helped us to survive! But now we have the chance to rewire the brain and live a happier, healthier life. We start doing this by choosing to acknowledge, understand and then heal from unhealthy thought patterns.
Repeating positive affirmations to our ourselves consistently helps us to reprogram our neural pathways, so eventually, we believe the truths we tell ourselves. By writing these affirmations in easy to read places – like on the fridge, or on a post it, you can train your brain to accept these as true. I’ve even seen someone write affirmation on their bathroom mirror – not a bad idea if you struggle to love your body! You may even want to pair an affirmation with a positive action. So, every time you drink a glass of water (or coffee!) you remember what is good and true about yourself. And over time, you can combat your fear and rewire your neural pathways.
Here are five you can repeat that will combat some of the common fears and insecurities we share:
I am enough
Many of us been told that we are not enough, or that we are too much. Whether it is our gender, identity, personality or how we look or speak, we can spend our lives innately believing that who we are is broken. Repeat the phrase “I am enough” to yourself every time you feel vulnerable – in the mirror, before an event, or when you wake up in the morning. It’s not a lie, it’s the truth.
I deserve love
It doesn’t matter how you have been treated in the past – you are a human who has innate worth. That means you deserve love. Repeat this phrase to yourself when you doubt your self worth, or when you are tempted to minimise yourself in a relationship. You do not have to earn love or affection, you are deserving of it because you breathe.
I have power over my life
Feelings of powerlessness and a lack of control can keep us from moving forward in life. Sometimes the idea of making a plan feels too overwhelming, or we have been abused and have had power taken away from us. The affirmation, “I have power over my life,” reminds us that we have choice. In this moment, you can choose the next best thing for you. And in toxic situations or relationships, this empowers you take back your power, or to ask for help.
I can trust my instincts or I can trust my partner
If you struggle to trust yourself and always seek outward guidance, then repeating the phrase, “I can trust my instincts,” will build up your confidence and courage. Alternatively, if you lean more on your own strength at the expense of trusting your partner or spouse, then reminding yourself, “I can trust my partner,” can change the way you interact. Trust works both ways and is earned in a committed, respectful relationship. Remember the moments your partner has earned you trust in the past, and repeat this affirmation to yourself before you start a difficult conversation.
My emotions do not control me
Your emotions are important. How you feel indicates how your body, brain, heart and spirit is reacting to the world around you. And when we understand and acknowledge how we feel (even when it’s complicated!), we can grow, heal and enjoy the fullness of life. However, our feelings don’t always tell us the truth. Just ask someone who experiences high anxiety – I may feel like the world is ending if I don’t hit a deadline, but in reality the globe keeps spinning. In the same way, our feelings of anger, shame, loneliness or depression communicate that we need to address something in our world, but they do not define us. If you are afraid of emotions, or if you find yourself becoming controlled by them, remind yourself that, “my emotions do not control me”. They are not an engine, just a sign post.
Do you feel stuck or out of control? Do you want to rewire your brain and overcome your pain? Contact Colleen on 0434 337 245 or Duncan on 0434 331 243 for a FREE 10-minute phone consultation on how we can best help you, or press book now.
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