To read the first piece in this two-part series on how to regain control of our thoughts, emotions and beliefs in the face of fear and uncertainty, click here.
We are not victims of circumstance. We have the power to be whoever we want to be.
Therefore, if we want to change our lives, it begins with us.
If we can become aware of our emotional triggers, we can better understand why we do what we do. From that point, we can take action towards change.
A powerful example is self-reflection. As an exercise, it builds awareness of self and others. It only takes 10 minutes a day, and the results are long lasting.
Self-reflection involves asking ourselves questions. We will receive the answers, if not immediately, then definitely within the next few days.
In the process, we have to keep the dialogue with our ‘self’ open and trust what we’re hearing.
Some of these questions may be:
- How can I use my time wisely?
- How can I make the most of my day?
- How can I take care of my physical, mental and emotional self?
- What are the things that matter to me the most in my life?
- What small act of kindness can I impart on today?
- What is life asking of me?
- What are my thinking patterns like?
The impact of beliefs
To better understand beliefs, let’s take a closer look at the origins.
A great deal of our beliefs comes from those people who had authority of some kind during the early imprinting phase of our lives. This phase is usually from the time we are born right up to the ripe age of 7 years old.
At this time, other adults have a significant influence over us. This is particularly true for parents, teachers, older siblings or anyone we held with high regard.
Some beliefs come from a strong emotional experience. When this happens, the feeling creates conviction that what we were experiencing at that time was true.
TV, books, super heroes, movies and music can all have had a major impact on us during our various periods of development as we were growing up.
Who and what we are is because of our beliefs.
Beliefs can be disempowering as much as they can be empowering. It’s important to choose the right ones, because they come from our mind and our emotions.
It is also possible to change them.
Our lives are a perfect reflection of our beliefs
Indeed, our beliefs are ingrained within us. Their roots are deep.
But we have the power to break unhealthy patterns and retrain our brains. It just takes a little awareness and action.
As humans, we tend to think that our beliefs are based on reality. However, beliefs are delusions. Assumptions. They are not real. Known or not known.
We have come to understand that it is our unconscious mind that creates our reality. It runs the show when we are not being ‘present’ and ‘mindful’ in our own lives.
We have also come to learn that our beliefs govern our experiences. The beliefs that we hold to be true, precious and important become our identity, reflecting who we are and how we live our lives.
Life responds to demand. In order to demand, we have to know what we want. Otherwise, life will draw us to all of the things that are associated with our beliefs.
This is how we create our lives.
It’s time to take charge
So, here’s what we know.
Thoughts and beliefs are forces of energy that shape or affect our lives.
A thought that is directed repeatedly with intention and focus is very powerful.
Understanding how the brain works gives leaders the edge they need in an uncertain future.
Now, it’s time to calm our farm.
Now, more than ever, we need to focus on the things that we have control over. The possibilities are numerous:
- Breath work to calm the mind
- Affirmations and setting daily intentions to maintain focus on the right information
- Free online courses – https://www.catherineplano.com.au/free-30-day-challenge
- Reading, whether fiction or non-fiction, to feed the mind with goodness
- Dancing and movement to help reduce anxiety
- Listening to uplifting music
- Yoga – there are so many apps now that we can indulge in our own living room
- Tapping – emotional freedom techniques that can be found on YouTube
- Watching funny movies to lift the spirit
- Writing or journaling to unpack our thoughts, mind and emotions
There are heaps of opportunities.
All we have to do is open our minds up to what is possible.
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Please be kind to yourself, take care of yourself and know that we are in this together.
If you know someone that is having a hard time, share this blog with them to help them heal their heart.
