What's the best that could happen?

Oftentimes, we revert to asking ourselves, "What's the worst that could happen?" when trying to make a big life decision or take a leap of faith. However, what if we started asking ourselves, "What's the best that could happen?"

Thoughts create words, and words create our reality. We often forget the power of what we think about and talk about. Our mind is a tool; we can choose to use it or be used by it. If we guide it in the right direction (i.e. towards what we do want instead of don't want), we can start to feel the effects of a life beyond our wildest dreams.

Pandemic: end of the world or end of the world as we know it?

I'm sure we're all tired of hearing how COVID-19 and 2020 shook our existences up. However, it is a perfect example of how the stories we tell ourselves and others create that manifestation.

Well, I'll speak for myself here. There were two routes I could have taken during 2020:

1. Oh my god, the world is ending. Let me just crawl into my room and enjoy the little time I have left with the short-term pleasures of binge-watching Netflix and inhaling Ben and Jerry's.
2. Wow, all my previous responsibilities outside the home have come to a standstill. What can I do with this time, which is really a gift for myself, to finally do the things I've always wanted to do, but had been putting off because "I didn't have enough time"?

For me, that meant going back to school. And I did, granted online, but my Master's program was a huge anchor for me during that time of uncertainty. It gave me purpose and structure. When I asked myself, "What's the best that could happen?" I answered it with: I could learn and grow and get a degree to show for it.

But that answer didn't come overnight. It took time and quiet and reflection and journaling. Thinking about the best possible outcome is not easy when you can't even find the time to think about what to cook for dinner tonight.

Prioritizing time for yourself, like waking up five minutes earlier than normal to just be alone with your thoughts, seems like a big ask, but really, it just takes a little creativity and flexibility.

So how can you take five minutes today to dream up the most incredible tomorrow for yourself?

Some of you may be thinking, okay well, this isn't new information: "Think positive thoughts and good things will come your way." However, it's all easier said than done. That's because this work is not about gaining more knowledge and understanding; it's about integrating that information into practice. Practice takes trust and patience. It also requires an abandonment of perfectionism.

Choosing Today as the First Day of the Rest of Your Life

As cheesy as it might sound, it's never too late to press the refresh button on your life. Those who may be thinking: "It's too late for me" or "You can't teach an old dog new tricks"-- Think again!

Studies show that the brain has a remarkable capacity for plasticity, even in later years. It's never about your ability to change: it's about your choice.

Despite the many directions you may feel pulled into on a daily basis, you are in the driver's seat of your life. And the choices you make today are not just affecting you, but also the people around you and your loved ones.

Numerous studies have demonstrated the profound impact of positive thinking on various aspects of our well-being, including reduced stress levels, improved immune function, and enhanced resilience to adversity. The more we choose positivity and happiness, the healthier we are and can better show up for the people in our lives.

When we think positively, our brains release neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, often referred to as "feel-good" chemicals. These neurotransmitters not only uplift our mood but also contribute to a range of physiological benefits, such as lower blood pressure and improved cardiovascular health.

If you want to continue to be an asset in your life instead of a liability, it's time to start choosing the positive, healthier thoughts.

Letting go of the myth of perfectionism

Sure, it's easy to decide to be healthy today, but what about when we're feeling and tired and stressed tomorrow? How do we stay on the wagon? Let go of the idea that falling off is a bad and permanent thing. We all have our good days and our bad days. We are not going to give up on thinking positively after just one negative thought slips into our mind.

This idea of all or nothing: "I'm going to be perfect and only think positively from now on" is not realistic or sustainable, and leaves zero room for self-compassion. Of course we won't ever show up exactly as we would like--that's called being human. So start chuckling at yourself instead of beating yourself up after realizing you may have slipped, and gently make your way back onto the path.

Positive Thoughts, Healthier Bodies

Positive thinking serves as a catalyst for adopting healthier lifestyle behaviors. When we approach challenges with a positive mindset, we're more likely to persevere in the face of setbacks and stay committed to our health goals. Additionally, optimism has been linked to better coping mechanisms when dealing with chronic illnesses and faster recovery from surgery or injury.

Moreover, cultivating a positive outlook can have profound effects on our mental health. Research indicates that individuals who engage in positive thinking practices experience lower levels of anxiety and depression, leading to greater overall life satisfaction and happiness.

Practical Strategies for Cultivating Positive Thinking

As a health and wellness coach, I often recommend the following strategies to help clients harness the power of positive thinking:

1. Practice Gratitude:?Start each day by expressing gratitude either out loud or in a journal. Keeping a gratitude journal can help shift your focus from what's lacking to what you appreciate.
2. Challenge the ANTs (Automatic Negative Thoughts):?Learn to recognize negative thought patterns and challenge them with more positive and realistic perspectives. Reframing negative self-talk can significantly improve your outlook on life.
3. Surround Yourself with Positivity:?Surround yourself with supportive and optimistic individuals who uplift and inspire you. Limit exposure to negative influences, such as social media or news, that may fuel pessimism.
4. Visualize Success:?Visualize yourself achieving your health and wellness goals in vivid detail. Visualization techniques can help reinforce positive beliefs and motivate you to take action toward your aspirations.
5. Practice Mindfulness:?Engage in mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing, or Yoga to cultivate present-moment awareness and reduce stress.

Embracing a Positive Lifestyle

The power of positive thinking cannot be underestimated. By shifting our thinking to, "What's the best that could happen?" we not only enhance our mental and physical well-being but also empower ourselves to lead happier and more fulfilling lives. Remember, your thoughts have the power to shape your world—choose to think about the most positive possible outcome, and watch your life flourish accordingly.

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