The mind can be a very tricky thing. Yes, it is indispensable and usually ingenious, and it’s always turning those gears…
But are you benefited by the current gear-turning?
Are the patterns and thought-processes you use assisting in the greater good of you and your life???
Do you often find yourself discouraged or running out of steam???
At times, have you noticed yourself using the following SDP (Self-Defeating Phrases)?
1. I can’t do it.
2. He/She/They can do it, but that has nothing to do with me.
3. I need my ____ [fill in the blank] ____ .
4. I’m justifying these actions, because life is meant to be enjoyed!!
5. I need _________ which will give me comfort.
6. I don’t have the faintest idea how to…
It’s OK to admit it; we all use these phrases now and then. However, the goal is to recognize their presence and maximize your response. Some excuses can be valid and I’m not saying to ignore them, but begin to be more conscious of your choices!
The mind, in its overly-analytical way, enjoys attempting to be a step or two ahead of the game. This means always trying to assess any upcoming situation, while maximizing pleasure and minimizing pain.
Not only that, often our mind can get it completely wrong, because it’s been too busy with its own analyses to be objective and observe reality!
And yes you have to look out for number one, but you should also respond to your world appropriately, instead of (sometimes) standing in your own way!
If you find yourself alone with a mirror, look deep into your own eyes and SMILE.
Say Thank You, and Admire Yourself for the excellent qualities that you’ve been displaying!!
Keep encouraging yourself.
If you must overcome one of the SDP mentioned above, here is how you deal with them:
1. YES you can do it. What you Conceive and Believe, you can Achieve.
2. The other people’s ability to do it does have to do with you! If they can accomplish this, so can you!
3. If _____ is not a Basic Survival need (food, water, shelter, clothes, cleanliness, rudimentary social upkeep) then You Really Can Go Without it AND Still Be Happy!
4. Life is definitely meant to be enjoyed! That includes staying healthy and maintaining respect for yourself!!
5. Allocate for the slip-ups you can’t go without, and commit to it only being the time-frame you choose: weekly, monthly, etc.
6. You can always learn how to do things, even if it means breaking down the problem and solving small pieces first. The puzzle will come together EVERY TIME.
The best way to progress is to begin anticipating these SDP (as they occur for you)! It’s also helpful to prepare your answer for each one in advance. Pay attention to the questions you ask yourself and the answers you give…
Keep up with the outcomes of situations where you decided to change (or not change) your response. Most of all, Be Honest with Yourself!
Come back Next Week to overcome your brain’s other six habitual phrases that sabotage daily life and your limitless potential!!!!
Part Two will be published on July 7th! 🙂
Feel free to re-visit this entry for help responding to any Self-Defeating phrases that may arise.
Have a spectacular day 🙂
Yours in Calmness,
Dr. Inessa
Calmness.com