Is your way of thinking hindering your efforts to create better habits in life?
I found thinking patterns that weren’t serving me, and likely apply to most people. If you recognize any of the following thinking patterns, consider the suggested upgrades.
1. I Can Do It Later
Someday you'll write your book, study your course, meditate, or work out. However, “someday” never comes.Upgrade: Commit to a time to begin and create a schedule with deadlines.
2. Just One
When I was trying to quit smoking, “just one won’t hurt” thinking kept me in the loop. Such thinking supports addictive and compulsive behaviors.Upgrade: My health/finances/family/mission is more important than one fleeting pleasure.
3. Life Is Too Short
“Life is too short to suffer,” we say. However, avoiding discomfort sabotages efforts to improve our lives.Upgrade: I can grow through this adversity, and I am strong enough to take on hard challenges.
4. What’s Wrong With Me?
Not living up to our expectations may lead to self-criticism.Upgrade: Be kind to yourself, and let your failures be stepping stones.
5. Too Boring or Hard
Exercise, meditation, or studying can be tedious. New thinking patterns can change boring or hard to exciting.Upgrade: I dare to take on hard things and seek creative fun in anything I do.
6. It’s All Too Much
When I’m overwhelmed, it’s too much to handle.Upgrade: I’ll take it one step at a time and find beautiful focus in each step.
7. I’m Behind
Self-imposed expectations can cause us to feel that we’re not up to speed.Upgrade: I’m always where I need to be.
8. I Want It Now
Instant gratification is rare. Progress takes time.Upgrade: I will enjoy the process.
9. I’m Too Busy
Goals and intentions are worth clearing other clutter for.Upgrade: I make time for the things that matter to me.
10. Get It Over With
When life feels like a hamster wheel, we may think we’re getting nowhere.Upgrade: I am present and fully devoted in everything I do.
Once we become aware of our thinking patterns, we can improve them.
