Are you aware of just how many times you talk yourself out of things as opposed to talking yourself into them? It seems that rarely do we put the same amount of effort into talking ourselves into things, right? But the limitations we think we’re basing our decisions on usually exist solely in our minds. We can choose to believe them or not. Some simple exercises in mindfulness can help:
1. Notice how you react to specific thoughts about moving forward and taking action. Do you immediately respond with an “I Can’t” statement? Do you come up with a list of perceived obstacles that will prevent you from accomplishing the task? Make a list of all things you think or say in response to an idea over the course of the week .
2. At the end of the week, look at your list. How many responses are excuses based on false limitations? Are there ones you can quickly deem as untrue? Are any based on truths that can be easily worked through or around? Are you playing it safe? Narrow the list by eliminating statements that are false or ones that are not considered to be debilitating obstacles.
3. Of the items leftover, determine what needs to be done in order for them to not be hindrances for forward movement. Are they based in fear? Are they based in reality? Are they filled with busy work or procrastination? Self sabotage? Fear of failure? By now they probably seem more doable.
4. Dedicate a certain amount of time talking yourself INTO acting on the idea you had. What would that take? Ask a friend to help you on the task? Hire a coach to make you accountable? Replace the “I Can’t” mantra with “I Can?” Can you imagine the possibilities of success as a result of your action? Do what it takes to talk yourself into moving forward despite your perceived limitations.
5. Notice the opportunities that come up as a result of talking yourself into something. What happened as a result of your action? Did it throw you in the path of an important contact? Did you see things from a different perspective than before the action? Did you gain inspiration and motivation to go further?
6. Repeat.
