Change the process

Our mind has direct influence over our whole life and how things play out for us.

The way we think influences the way we feel and this impacts our behaviours. For example, if your thoughts are telling you that nobody likes you, nobody wants to spend time with you and everybody hates you, you might feel sad, upset, depressed. Think about how you might act if you feel sad, upset and depressed. Will you be upbeat and outgoing, smiling at people and holding yourself with confidence? Or will you be introverted, lacking confidence and not wanting to make eye contact?? 

Depending on the way that the thoughts and feelings impact your behaviour, it may turn into a self fulfilling prophecy, with the behaviour pretty much guaranteeing that the original thought was right and so the cycle continues!

So let's think about those thoughts! Trying to take control of your thoughts and challenge them, spin them and take charge of the feelings and behaviours that come from them puts you in a powerful position within your own mind and life. Instead of being led and feeling there is no control, you get the option to take charge. When you have an unwelcome thought, try taking a breath and asking yourself

“How is this thought making me feel?”

“Where can I feel this feeling?”

“What is the feeling making me want to do?”

Becoming aware and not just letting the process start to run its course is a great way to start to take back your control. 

If you notice you are feeling a certain way, and its not beneficial for you, try and think of things that will evoke a new emotion. For example, if you are feeling flat and low, try watching or listening to something that usually makes you feel upbeat (may I suggest some funny cat videos). 

It's a long process to retrain yourself and take control of your mind and like I say with everything, if you are struggling, always reach out to a trusted health professional.