What is it that makes some people successful at change, while others struggle and struggle to form new habits? Is it willpower, determination, being driven by pain or pleasure? Many factors come into play when creating a lifestyle that supports positive health and well-being. Our mindset has everything to do with it. Here are some pointers that I have found to be very beneficial in helping people make change.
Start with Why - In the book, Start With Why by Darren Hardy, he talks about how our “whys” often go 7 - 10 levels deeper than what we originally think. If you want to lose weight for example, your “why” might be “I want to fit better in my clothes.” When you take time to really think about all the reasons why you want to achieve this goal you'll find several more reasons that can go deep. Taking time to do this work you become emotionally driven to achieving it.
Understand Your Neuro Pathways - Our brains have a highway of neuro pathways that are formed by repetitive thought and behavior patterns. If each day you wake up, have a cup of coffee, go to the gym and begin your workday, you have formed this as a habit. Anything you do repeatedly is what is going to become your natural response whether it’s positive or negative. With anything you want to change you can grow and develop new neural pathways. Your life right now is an example of this, which proves you can do it.
Working With Your Subconscious - Tapping into your subconscious is a very powerful way to work with mindset. In the article, Reprogramming your Mind by Team Tony at www.tonybbins.com it states, "The subconscious mind goes beyond learning new skills. It’s involved in information processing and affects everything we think, say and do." For the most part, I always see the good or opportunity in any given situation. My mind naturally seeks this. I have consistently listened to affirmative hypnosis and meditations while falling asleep over the years, programming my mindset. You can do this with any goal you have as you get into a relaxed state. You may choose to do this on your own as you practice new thought patterns in a deeply relaxed state, seek a professional to guide you in the process or as I did. I choose particular uplifting guided meditations.
Accountability - In making any change in life, it’s important to surround yourself with people who have similar goals and aspirations. Having the support of others and not doing it on your own helps you to stay on track and feel supported. I am sure we have all heard the saying we are the average of the five people we spend the most time with. Choose a positive support group that will be there for you.
Short Term Wins - Setting short term goals where you have immediate wins will help you make progress. This keeps you focused and motivated, while experiencing rewards all along the way. Associating positive feelings with your success anchors this process for you.
Never Give Up - Each time you try over, you are actually developing more skills, strengthening your mindset and forming new habits. Every “failure” can actually be viewed as a stepping stone to success.
Let your experience empower you to succeed.