By Dr. Craig A. Maxwell
How we think and speak about ourselves is referred to as self-talk. Many of us drift through life giving little thought to the words we use when describing or thinking about self. Words define our character. Self-worth and love help us maximize our full life potential. Positive words breed positive results.
We entertain anywhere from 12,000 to 60,000 thoughts per day. Thoughts are the unspoken words we utter to ourselves. Research finds that 80% of these thoughts and/or words are typically negative in nature. However, there is a solution to our negative self-talk problem. The answer is a shift in perception. Studies show that training the mind to think in a more positive light greatly influences the way we respond to our everyday life experiences.
“Negative thoughts are particularly draining.” According to author Jennifer Read Hawthorne, “if you can recognize a negative or limiting thought, you can consciously choose to change it. The chemicals produced by the body as a response to this kind of thought are more likely to support you in fulfilling your goal.” Our body responds accordingly to our thoughts. Positive thoughts and words breed positive results.
The Power of Positive Thinking
“Change your thoughts and you change your world.” Norman Vincent Peale
According to Peale, the way we act or react to life has everything to do with the way we speak to ourselves. “Watch your manner of speech if you wish to develop a peaceful state of mind. Start each day by affirming peaceful, contented and happy attitudes and your days will tend to be pleasant and successful.”
Guide to Positive Affirmations
Beginning each day with a positive attitude sets the tone for success. Let’s face it, how many of us hit the snooze button and immediately start dreading the day? We hurry to get ready, while we worry about all the things that have yet to happen. We miss out on the magic in the moment, and it all starts when we wake up hurried and begin feeding into a negative mindset.
Paul the Apostle had this to say about our thoughts: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things.” Philippians 4:8
It takes work shifting our self-talk from the negative conditioned mindset back into a natural and loving state of wellness. Speaking positive affirmations is a good place to start. I recommend either writing down your own affirmations or finding something that resonates with you – to read it aloud every morning for 21 days. Carry this affirmation with you and don’t hesitate to read it when you are feeling negative. Tell yourself today is a good day and believe in the power of your positive affirmations. Throughout the day, pay close attention to the words used to describe yourself!
Samples of Daily Positive Affirmations
1) “Today I will work on seeing only positive. I will black out all negative thinking. I will focus on what is possible and not the barriers.” Mary Frances Winters
2) I love and approve of myself.
3) I believe in myself and I can do anything.
4) I now release all energy blocks that keep me from experiencing my full life potential. I welcome the natural flow of abundance into my life now.
5) I no longer judge or criticize myself. I am free to love who I am.
I suggest trying our Diamond Nutritionals Foundation Vitamins as your daily multivitamin and mineral supplement. In addition to the complete list of nutrients and daily essentials, Foundation Vitamins are also packed with the full spectrum of B vitamins to help boost energy and support stressful lifestyles. Positivity and stress elimination go hand-in-hand in creating a healthy, happy life for yourself and your family.
We are creatures of habit, so allow yourself the necessary time to adjust. It typically takes 21 days to make or break a habit so be patient. Stop beating up on yourself and give yourself the love you deserve. Remember Peale’s advice… “Change your thoughts and you change your world.”
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Hello Dr Maxwell & thank you for this opportunity. I’m 41(perimenopausal). Chronic gastritis,metabolic syndrome since past 4 years. Lost my beloved mom last year .was her caregiver for 15 years. She had lupus/cardiomyopathy. As menopause approaches I’m afraid of the same diagnosis. Since past few months I have some odd symptoms of autoimmunity, can. I prevent a full blown disease or atleast pause it before menopause hits. Thank you. God bless
Hello Dia,
Thank you for contacting me. I am sorry to hear about all you have been through.
I look forward to speaking with you!
Blessings,
Dr. M