A quick search of “how many thoughts do we have per day?” provides a wide range.
Some reports say the number is 6,000 while others say 60,000.
So, somewhere in that 10x swing is likely the level.
Either way, we consistently have a lot of thoughts going through our mind.
The challenge is what to do with all those thoughts.
We end up picking from the thought menu which ones to think about.
Once we make that choice, we can go do many paths.
Thinking can become positive or negative.
Feelings can emerge based on how we are thinking.
This can lead to actions (or inaction).
The results of those actions can then reinforce our thinking.
Creating what we refer to as a self-fulfilling prophecy.
My Perspective
Our lives are full of challenges and complexity.
They can pop up in any area of our lives – work, family, friends, etc.
The thoughts and thinking about the challenges can drive actions and results.
Knowing we are in a challenging time could be an opportunity to create a “thinking chart”.
The format is simple.
Ask the question – “What am I thinking about this challenge?”
Make a list of all the things you are currently thinking.
Then, for any negative thought, create a “try thinking” phrase.
Here are a few examples:
Instead of “this is too hard”, try “this may take some time and effort”.
Instead of “I’m not good at this”, try “what am I missing?”.
Instead of “Plan A didn’t work”, try “good thing the alphabet has 25 letters”.
Your Turn
Does your thinking trend toward the positive or negative?
Is there an area of your life that you are overthinking right now?
How could you reframe what you are thinking to drive better feelings and actions?