Empowering Thoughts: The Impact of Your Mindset on Hope and the Future

SHOW NOTES:

On this show…we are exploring the impact your mindset has on hope and your future as we lean into producing empowering thoughts. It’s time to stop the hamster wheel of thinking for an important check-in. It’s no secret that our minds are incredibly active, even when we’re sleeping! According to cognitive neuroscientists, we are conscious of only about 5 percent of our cognitive activity, so most of our decisions, actions, emotions, and behavior depends on the 95 percent of brain activity that goes beyond our conscious awareness. It’s time to be intentional and grab a little more of the unconscious market share. We can move in the right direction by shifting our thinking patterns, interrupting negative self-talk, and being willing to embrace the unknown with possibility and hope. 

If you’re in a rut and think tomorrow holds no promise but to be a repeat of today, then it will. Henry Ford said, "If you think you can or if you think you can't, either way, you're right". So much of your attitude determines success or failure.

I remember leading a support group one night and a participant said, “you can’t just be happy, it doesn’t work that way.” I’m not sure whether that statement is right or wrong and I wasn’t insinuating that one could flip a switch but I was encouraging them to choose to move in that direction and in that…you have a choice. 

Understanding the power you possess to alter your thinking and shift your perception can lead to a future where you are the architect of your own success and fulfillment.

Dr. Dan J. Tomasulo shares the Thinking Habits of Highly Hopeful People found at psychologytoday.com

Maya Shrikant  shares The science of hope: More than wishful thinking found on the ASU website

Joan Ridsdel at The Family Center gives us 10 Common Negative Thinking Patterns and 5 Steps for Change

Changing your mindset to impact hope and your future involves several key shifts in thinking and behavior. Here are some ways you can do this:

1. Focus on the Positive: Train yourself to see the silver lining in every situation. Even in challenging times, there are lessons to be learned and opportunities for growth.
2. Practice Gratitude: Regularly take time to reflect on the things you are grateful for. This can help shift your focus from what you lack to what you have, fostering a sense of hope and abundance.
3. Set Realistic Goals: Break down your long-term goals into smaller, achievable steps. Celebrate each milestone you reach, no matter how small, to build momentum and keep hope alive.
4. Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity: Instead of seeing failure as a setback, view it as a stepping stone to success. Learn from your mistakes and use them to fuel your determination.
5. Surround Yourself with Positive Influences: Spend time with people who uplift and inspire you. Their positivity can help reinforce your own hopeful outlook.
6. Visualize Your Future: Take time to envision the future you want for yourself. Visualizing your goals can help make them feel more attainable and keep you motivated.
7. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself, especially in times of difficulty. Treat yourself with the same compassion you would offer a friend facing a challenge.
8. Stay Flexible: Life is unpredictable, and plans may need to change. Stay open to new opportunities and be willing to adapt your goals as circumstances evolve.
9. Seek Support: Don't be afraid to reach out for help when you need it. Whether it's from friends, family, or a professional, having a support system can provide comfort and hope.

CHALLENGE: Your mindset shapes your outlook on life, influencing your sense of hope and belief in the future. Cultivating a positive mindset can fuel your determination and resilience, helping you overcome challenges with optimism.

I Know YOU Can Do It!