Changing A Negative Mindset

    For many years I have suffered from a negative mindset stemming from my past traumas. I was always waiting for the other shoe to drop in my life and crush me again. I started to notice negative thought patterns when I was taking a grief class. This class was very difficult and intense, but it was the beginning of recognizing why I had such a negative mindset. Life may have contributed to forming my negativity but that didn't mean I had to stay that way. Another turning point for me was one night I was stressing out over something and I was so upset. My mind typically goes directly to the worst case scenario. Venting to my husband who is always calm and full of peace, I realized I wanted that peace in my life. He had something I wanted. I knew his peace came from God and I was not focusing on what was most important, nurturing my relationship with my Heavenly Father. I made a choice to change that night.

The first thing we need to do when changing our negative mindset to a positive one is to recognize that we need to change.  Also, what are the things in our life that may be making the problem worse. Once you realize that, then you need to make a choice. Do you want to stay in this negative place or do you really want to change? I knew I needed to change. These negative thought patterns were stripping me of my full potential and distracting me from what was most important. They would form barriers that prevented me from moving forward, stirring up fear and bitterness. If you are struggling with this today, here are some steps to help you change that negative mindset.

1. Recognize your negative mindset.

2. Realizing that true peace can only come from God.

3. Choose to change.

4. Take action steps.

Examples of action steps

Every morning try to start your day off with prayer and meditating on God's word.

Then list 3 things you are thankful for ex: life, health, family. Writing these things can be very powerful.

Then say to yourself, I am a positive person I will not focus on negative thoughts today.

Each day try to fill your mind with books, audio books, music, podcasts that are uplifting and fills you with positivity.

When you sense your thoughts going in a negative direction, recognize it and immediately redirect your thoughts.

These steps help me stay on track and out of a negative black hole.

I hope they help you too.

Love,
Chrissy