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Ever wondered how much control our thoughts have over how we feel? In this episode, titled ‘Feel Better,’ I speak about this fascinating topic. Are our thoughts set in stone, or can we choose which ones shape our happiness? Join me as we explore the incredible impact of our thoughts on our well-being and discover the empowering ways to take charge of our thinking for a more fulfilling life.
I’m all about this idea that thoughts aren’t set in stone. We’ve got the power to pick which ones we want to believe and act on. I’m all about being the boss of my thoughts instead of letting them boss me around. When we beef up our awareness, we can hit pause before buying into a thought and instead go for ones that actually make us feel good.
Two pieces of brain science
⭐️Neuropathways in our brain
Picture a wrinkly brain and those deep grooves. Think of those as like deep thought patterns.
Studies show that most of the thoughts we’re thinking are not original.
Our brain thinks thoughts and, unless those thoughts lead to disastrous results, it will lay a neuropathway so it can continue to think them.
This can be helpful if it’s a thought like “I’m awesome and make good decisions” yet realistically what it does, because of this second thing I’m about to teach on, is it leaves us to have a lot of automatic thinking. If left unexamined, our thinking tends to be fear based or negative. Sometimes I call this our ANTs, or our automatic negative thoughts? That’s what we’re bringing attention to here. That left unexamined our brain will lay neuropathways of automatic negative thoughts that we will just think over and over and over again. Ick! Talk about stinking thinking!
Which may lead you to ask, WHY SUSIE? Well it’s because of this second thing about the brain I want you to remember. One we have neuroplasticicity, we form neural pathways of neurons that wire together, fire together.
⭐️Motivational triad
Our brain’s job is to keep us alive, to keep our physical body here the next day, and to do so its motivated by three things: it wants to avoid pain, to seek pleasure and to conserve energy.
These are the three things that motivate our brain. Not whether you’re happy or in connected relationships or any of that.
I don’t know about you but when I first learned about the motivational triad and the science behind what my brain was here to do, I felt like I had discovered a traitor. Like my brain had betrayed me.
I didn’t spend much time investigating my thoughts.
Because come on, it was my brain, right? And it was looking out for my best interests, right?
WRONG!
Our brain’s job is for us to survive.
Period end of story.
The Power of a Brain Dump
A brain dump is the first step to get your power back. Let’s not let the bully win.
A brain dump involves setting a timer for as little as one minute and writing down all the thoughts that come to mind without judgment or analysis. This exercise allows us to externalize our thoughts and gain clarity and awareness of our thinking patterns.
“I want you to set a timer for 1 minute and dump your brain out on paper. Stop thinking. Start writing… It changes life. I know from personal experience and I’ve seen it in hundreds of warriors just like you.
In Conclusion
Taking control of our thoughts is a powerful tool for improving our overall well-being. By recognizing that thoughts are not facts and choosing thoughts that serve us better, we can break free from negative thinking patterns and live a more intentional and fulfilling life. Understanding the role of the “bully brain” and the motivational triad helps us make sense of our automatic negative thinking and empowers us to choose thoughts and actions that align with our values and goals. The practice of a brain dump provides a simple yet effective way to gain clarity and awareness of our thinking patterns, leading to positive transformation in our lives.
As we continue on our journey of personal growth and self-discovery, let us embrace the power of our thoughts and the impact they have on our well-being. By cultivating mindfulness and practicing the tools I shared, we can create a life filled with joy, purpose, and fulfillment. Let us choose to be the watchers of our minds, challenge our negative thinking patterns, and live each day with intention and gratitude. The future holds endless possibilities for those who dare to take control of their thoughts and create a life they truly love.
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