I’m a big believer that one of the most valuable tools a person can possess is a strong mindset. This enables a person to plan effectively, deal with crisis and move forward productively. Like anything else, thinking in a constructive way takes practice. Here are 6 tips I recommend for strengthening your mind.
1. Keep the past behind you. Far too many people spend crucial energy focused on what has already happened instead of what could be happening. Instead of dwelling on what used to be, start focusing on how you want things to be.
2. Take “smaller bites”. Many of us have so many things that need to be done that it can become overwhelming. Rather than allowing the stress this causes to set us back, the key is to take “smaller bites.” Focus on and complete 1 task at a time before moving on to the next. This will allow you to simultaneously focus on the task at hand, accomplish things, feel better and still progress toward your ultimate goal(s).
3. Trust yourself. When things get challenging many people have a tendency to question how (or if) they’ll ever be able to find a solution. Rather than adopting that negative mindset, have faith that one way or another you will succeed. Many of the most admirable people I’ve encountered were just normal people that refused to give up on finding solutions to their problems.
4. Don’t compare yourself. With things like Facebook, there is a greater tendency than ever for people to compare themselves to their friends and acquaintances. Ultimately this is damaging, exhausting and unproductive. Rather than worrying about how you stack up versus others, focus on whether you’re growing into a better version of yourself.
5. Put others first. As human beings we often have a tendency to spend so much time in our own heads that we don’t focus enough on those around us. Placing energy into helping others (even in small ways) without worrying about what we’ll receive in return has the tendency to produce profound results. I’ve personally experienced time and again in my personal and business life that those I help often end up returning the favor to me in amazing and unexpected ways.
6. Use the ” 1 hour rule”. This is a trick that I adopted many years ago and often tell my patients about. When you’re faced with an obstacle in life there is nothing wrong with admitting you’re upset. Take an hour to feel the emotions – cry, scream, punch (preferably pillows not people) or do whatever necessary to allow some of that emotion to be released…but only for 1 hour. After that hour you need to come out prepared to create solutions to whatever issues you may be facing.