We are all human and make mistakes, but so often we beat ourselves up about them. When someone else makes a mistake we will often understand, listen and offer help. But somehow we never show this kindness or empathy to ourselves. We seldom accept negative comments from others; however, we so often accept our own inner negative chatter or self-talk.
Many people, upon paying careful attention to their thinking patterns, are surprised at the negativity they find there.
While the occasional negative or judgmental thought may have little impact on you, the ongoing negativity that passes unnoticed can have a dampening effect on your mood and your outlook.
When you are aware of the tone of your thoughts, however, you can challenge them. Try to be conscious of your feelings, opinions, and judgments for a single day.
Consider your thoughts from the perspective of a detached observer and try not to judge yourself based on the notions that come into your mind. Simply watch the flow of your consciousness and make a note of the number of times you find yourself focusing on gloomy notions or indulging in self-criticism.
As you become increasingly aware of your patterns of thought, whether positive and negative, you will gradually learn to control the stream of thoughts. In doing so, you then gain the ability to actively modulate your mood.
The awareness you cultivate within yourself will eventually enable you to create a foundation of positivity from which you can build on in many ways.
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