3 Strategies To Move From Negative To Positive Thinking

If you want to succeed in anything in life, from being an entrepreneur to playing competitive chess, you have to learn how to think positively.

So often, our default language to ourselves is negative. With every little mistake, we start to beat ourselves up and think negative thoughts.

But the best mindset you can create shifts that negative self-talk to positive self-talk.

I made a video about this which you can see below. If you want more content like this then make sure to subscribe to the Be Your Own Boss Podcast Youtube Channel where my wife Blake and I teach you how you can be your own boss.

Here are three strategies to make the switch to more positive thinking:

1. Imagine an older version of yourself. When you make a mistake and are tempted to think or speak negatively, picture an older and wiser version of yourself. What would that more experienced person say to you? They wouldn’t beat you up—instead, they would likely tell you to try again and keep going. Imagining an older version of yourself gives you perspective and lets you know that one mistake doesn’t define your entire life or career.

2. Lean into negative thoughts. Often, our negative thoughts are trying to tell us something. In many cases, our mind or body is afraid and trying to protect us from that fear. It can be helpful to lean into the negative thoughts and address why those thoughts are there. If a fear of failure or losing is causing negativity, address the fear as the root problem of the negativity. Instead of pushing down negative thoughts, try to work through the fear.

Blake and I made lots of mistakes during our entrepreneurial journey and learned things the hard way, but you don’t have to. Whether you are considering going off on your own or you already have, this will be a valuable resource for you. Download our PDF on the 7 things you need to master if you want to be a successful entrepreneur.

3. List positive and grateful things. When you find yourself falling into the trap of negative thinking, stop and create a list of three positive things. Even if you made a mistake or something went wrong, you can list positive things like having a learning experience or discovering something about yourself. You can also turn to positivity with gratitude. Instead of thinking or speaking negatively, make a mental list of three things you are grateful for. Replacing your negative thoughts for positive ones can train your brain and help you move away from negative self-talk. Over time you will be able to catch yourself in the moment and make the mental switch.

Mistakes and bad things happen—it’s inevitable in your life and career. The key to success is turning those mistakes into learning opportunities and not tearing yourself down about every little slip up. These strategies can turn negative thinking into positive thinking and set you up for long-term success.

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