On the journey of self love and self acceptance, the biggest obstacle you’ll have to face is yourself. The deeply ingrained thoughts and behaviors which no longer serve you, will need to be challenged and shifted, before you can experience yourself and your life differently. You’ll need to move from a limited mindset, to one which is more expansive. You will need to develop a positive mindset. Moving past those thoughts that are not affirming, and leaving space for positivity and possibility. The way we think, is essentially the dragon to slay during the change process.
Essentially what your doing is unlearning who you are, and inviting in the new you. Sounds easy enough right!? Lol
Speaking from personal experience, I can attest to how difficult it can be to challenge the way you’ve always experienced yourself, or how you’ve always thought of yourself. Though there is always room for improvement, I am happy to say, I am light years from where I used to be. Rather than being so quick to focus on what is not working, or what I don’t like, I allow myself to embrace more positive perspectives. I leave room for self compassion, and am open to change. I am very happy to say, I’m quite proud of the progress I’ve made.
Life is constantly unfolding, and thus, so am I.
It took a major mindset shift for me to get here. Now I can say, I truly believe what I say and think about myself. Often I have clients who will ask me, “so how do I do this?”
For me it looked like challenging thoughts, and many affirmations until it was solidified into stone. I now truly believe the positive things I say about myself. I’m no longer reciting mantras to overcome self doubt, but have actually changed my thoughts about how I see and experience myself. One thing I did which really helped me with this, is having my environment reflect the journey I was on. Little reminders spread throughout my house, car and even on my person.
Now there are many ways in which I did this, but here are the Top 4 things I used to encourage a positive mindset:
- Cups/ Mugs – I love tea and coffee. Once upon a time I wanted to own a coffee shop. One of the cupboards in my kitchen is dedicated to coffee, tea, and mugs. It is for this reason, not just any mug will do. I like to drink my coffee or tea out of something that is going to put me in a good mood. I look for mugs that have powerful phrases, or something that reminds of a good time. For example, whenever I travel, I like to bring back a mug. I love my New Orleans and Jamaica mug, 2 of my favorites.
- Jewelry – Not only does it serve as a statement piece; it can also serve as a constant reminder of what you are trying to remember. I remember, there were times I was having a hard time at work, and looking down at my bracelet which read “faith fulfills me”, would get me through the day. My most favorite piece, is a bracelet I bought in Bali which reads ……, or a bracelet I also bought in Bali of a Lotus. All these symbols and positive words, work as a reminder to me that things will get better if I’m having a tough time, or some of them just keep me in a positive mindset. It’s kind of hard to remain in a funk, when your draped in positivity.
- Art – I love quotes. I think they are such a great way to remember words of wisdom. One of the ways I create a positive atmosphere, is to purchase wall art with a great quote. This way, I see it all the time, and the message is drilled into my head. As you are decorating your space, try to find art that matches the mood of your space. Stores like Marshall’s, Winners, or Home Sense, are great places to find this type of art work at a great price. These are places I’ve frequented to purchase the pieces in my home.
- Textiles – This one is one that kind of snuck up on me. As I was writing this article, this one didn’t come to mind, but as I walked into my kitchen, I saw my hand towels hanging and I had to add it. I have towels, and blankets with positive messaging on them. Now my towels don’t emote a feeling, however it’s a nice reminder every time I enter my kitchen. I do love walking by my bed and seeing my message to dream.
- Stationary – This one is pretty easy and I think something which most people have. Notepads, journals, pens and pencils, are all objects which you can find positive messaging. I have bought pens that motivated me to want to write, because I loved what was written on them. Check out your local bookstore and you will find so many options for positive stationary.
Now the greatest thing about using these tips, is that it doesn’t need to be expensive. I’ve often found a lot of different objects in places like the Dollar Store, Walmart, or discount stores. They really are everywhere. You just have to be on the look out. Encouraging a positive mindset is very possible if you include some of these tips.
This is a blog dedicated to positivity, so I encourage you to explore more to help you along your journey?
