Work on reframing any time you’re naturally inclined to choose negativity. Remember, some days are better, some days are worse; look for the blessing rather than the curse. In an effort to gain self-awareness and center ourselves before helping others, it is important to learn to reframe the way we’ve traditionally processed our feelings.
By focusing on a particular thought process and the fallacies associated with it, and becoming more open-minded, we allow ourselves to view the world more positively. And, only in being able to reframe our own thoughts will we better understand how to help others do the same.
Reframing involves allowing negative thoughts and feelings to enter our mind, accepting them for what they are, but allowing ourselves to reconstruct them in a way so they become more optimistic. When we train ourselves to think more positively, we begin to more immediately appreciate life’s blessings.
How does it work?
For example, you can challenge “I’m not good enough” notions by mentally examining all the reasons these thoughts are untrue and then actually proving them wrong. By thinking of all of the evidence you have in your memory bank to support why you are good enough, then taking this a step further and proving to yourself you are by actually doing what your thoughts told you that you couldn’t, you will increase self-confidence.
Work to challenge your negative thoughts until it becomes second nature to think more positively, and you will eventually realize that anything is possible, and you are worthy of having yourself and others believe in your abilities. What happened to you is real, is unacceptable, and you can help others get through their struggles, too. But, you must believe in yourself first to be able to do so.
Reframing is not an easy concept to grasp, and it is common to get frustrated as nay-saying thoughts seem to hold more power than their counterparts. Remind yourself that they will only hold more power if you let them. Empower yourself to challenge the negativity and rise above it. We are our own worst critics and are limited only by our own self-defeating thoughts and behaviors. Confidence starts within.
When thinking more constructively becomes second nature, you’ll begin to understand you are capable of so much more than you would have traditionally given yourself credit for. Others will see this, too. If you exude confidence, others will have confidence in you and your abilities. It’s that simple.
You’ll be unstoppable once your mind has made this transition and you’ve been enlightened and able to breathe in new life while extending this to others. The energy is contagious. Recipients will take comfort in your encouragement, as you did when others encouraged you. And, this is a beautiful thing.
Begin to practice reframing negative thoughts today. Practice makes perfect, and a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Encourage yourself to take that step, and as you venture along, you will become more comfortable in bringing others with you.