Harvard Medical School research has proved that positive thinking really does change our brain in a physical way. This science is called neuroplasticity. It means that our thoughts can change the structure and function of our brains. Repetitive positive thought and positive activity can rewire our brain and strengthen brain areas that stimulate positive feelings. Here are some simple actions you can take to change your own brain.
THREE GOOD THINGS:
This is one of the most powerful of all positive psychology techniques. Every night for one week, look. back at your day just before you go to bed and find three things that went well for you during the day. Write them down and reflect on your role in them. But, there are three caveats:
- to write them down is important, as it helps you to focus on the events
- to reflect on your own role, as it contributes to your sense of perceived control and that in turn has an impact on well-being
- the time period is vital to achieve results – either stick to it for one week or try it once a week for six weeks.
CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE:
We have noticed that emotionally resilient people, when encountering a challenge in life, focus on what they have influence over. Too often in life, we sit within our circle of concern focusing on things that are completely outside of our control. Move into your circle of influence, and focus on what you can do about a situation, not what you can’t do. In this circle of influence, you will become empowered and make decisions that will add value to your life. Remember the quality of your decisions directly relate to the quality of your life.
THE YES/ NO EXERCISE:
It i s great to be a giver in life, however, not to the detriment of your own well-being.If you find that you are exhausted at the end of the day and that you have very little time for what is important, then do this very simple exercise. Make of list of everything you said “yes” to during the day, and then follow that by making a list of everything you have said “no” to. Look at the list and remind yourself that every time you say yes to anything, you are automatically saying no to something. Your list might reveal some very interesting patterns.
MORNING SMILE:
Every morning when you wake up, put a smile on your face. Your body will react automatically, and believe that all is good in the world. I have found this personally extraordinarily powerful (even if sometimes the smile is more like a grimace!).
TERMINATE ANTS:
Beware of Automatic Negative Thoughts (ANTS). When you learn to correct negative thoughts, you take away their power over you. Remember, you don’t have to believe every thought that goes through your head.
By Paula King
