A new way of thinking

Our thoughts are powerful. Are there goals you have that you have a hard time reaching? Are there habits you would like to break or start? It’s a good practice to honestly evaluate your thoughts to see what might be preventing you from reaching your goals. They can become more attainable when your thoughts are more productive.

Here are five ways to adopt a more positive way of thinking about yourself and the world around you.

1. Adopt a growth mindset.

Have you ever heard of a growth mindset? It’s more than just a positive way of thinking. In fact, it’s a powerful practice that means believing in the potential for development. Those with a growth mindset understand that change is possible, but learning a new skill is a result of practice and perseverance. While natural talent can play a part in success, it’s more often a result of determination and a willingness to work hard. And, a belief that change is possible.

2. Be realistic

Take an honest evaluation of where you are today, your natural aptitudes and talents as well as the time you have to devote to a new pursuit. Having realistic expectations for yourself can help you avoid feelings of defeat or becoming overwhelmed with a lack of progress.

3. Embrace your failures.

Failure can feel so hard! It can feel like you are personally lacking in the skills or abilities to achieve your goal, but it’s simply a learning opportunity. Try to start thinking about failure as a milestone along the road to success; not as something to be avoided at all costs. Failure is a part of life. When we can honestly evaluate an experience to see how we can do better next time, we can grow exponentially. And, the great thing about it is, the more we take part in this practice, the easier it will get.

4. Celebrate the success of others.

When we can admire the great qualities of others and their successes, we can learn to model the same behavior for success, while also developing a sense of giving and generosity of spirit. The world is full of talented people from whom we can learn much if we are willing to try. Plus, it’s always a great thing to lend support and encouragement to others.

5. Stop seeking approval.

While it’s ok to seek the opinions and thoughts of those we care about, it can be a harmful practice to be overly concerned with how people think and feel about us. This can often be an impediment to helping us develop our best self and to doing what is best for us to help reach our own goals.