An article on how to master your mindset seems almost arrogant. But how you use your mind can determine the direction of your life. Even if you’re taking tiny steps towards mindset mastery, you’ll notice dramatic improvements in your life.
We all possess this incredible tool that can shape our reality, influence our actions, and ultimately determine the direction of our lives. A tool that can either be our greatest ally or our worst enemy. Like any tool, if you neglect it, it starts to deteriorate. If you look after it, it lasts longer and serves you well.
So, if your mind is a tool, what are you doing to sharpen it? What are you focusing your attention on? How are you taking care of the most important tool in your shed?
Like Buddha said: “The mind is everything; what you think, you become.” Many powerful motivational speakers like Tony Robbins or Eckhart Tolle have echoed this sentiment. And they weren’t lying.
Our thoughts have a powerful impact on our lives, shaping our reality and even determining how we choose to act. That’s why it’s so important to master your mindset.
Blue-footed Booby Success Formula: How to master your mindset
- Practice mindfulness AND mind wandering
Mindfulness is important. It allows you to practice being present in the moment without getting distracted by thoughts of the past or worries about the future. It allows you to see things as they are and accept them as they are.
One way to practice mindfulness is to meditate. Find a quiet place to sit, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. When thoughts come up (and they will), acknowledge them and then gently bring your attention back to your breath. You can also practice mindfulness while doing everyday activities, such as washing dishes or taking a walk. Focus on the sensations of the activity and try to stay present in the moment. Here’s a simple mindfulness technique you can try.
Been there, got the t-shirt and still struggling to be mindful?
How about flipping the mindfulness concept around and trying mind wandering instead?
Mind wandering is when you let your mind wander off on its own. Instead of fighting it, you can try embracing the power of your wandering mind and use it to your advantage. Take a break from the mundane and let your mind wander, explore new ideas, and find inspiration in unexpected places. Doing this activity can actually put you in a better frame of mind, which means you’re one step closer to mastering your mindset.
- Challenge negative thoughts OR embrace them
Have you noticed your mind spiralling into a negative thought pattern? Maybe you start thinking about all the things that could go wrong in a situation, or you dwell on past mistakes. These negative thoughts can be harmful and hold you back from achieving your goals.
To combat negative thoughts, we’re often told to challenge them. This is helpful, but not always, especially if your mindset has been negative for a long time.
The prevailing wisdom out there says that when you notice a negative thought creeping in, ask yourself if it’s really true. Is there evidence to support the thought, or is it just your mind playing tricks on you? If the thought is not true or helpful, let it go and focus on something positive instead.
This is easier said than done. Which is why it can be helpful to turn that idea on its head and try embracing your negative thoughts.
Say what? This sounds like crazy, verging on dangerous, advice, but before you dismiss it out of hand, why not try it and see how it goes? Instead of simply challenging your harmful negative thoughts, acknowledge them and use them as the fuel that drives you towards your goals.
For many people, transforming self-doubt into a relentless pursuit of success works. But it might not work for you. So, experiment with this activity to see if embracing your negative thoughts can be a catalyst for growth.
- Set achievable goals PLUS a few daring ones
Setting goals is an important part how to master your mindset. When you have a clear idea of what you want to achieve, your mind can focus on finding ways to make it happen. Goals give you direction and purpose, which can help you to stay motivated and focused.
Traditionally, we’ve been told to set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals – and you know we’re fans of breaking goals down into small, manageable steps.
But, what about the daring, fun ones that make you feel alive?
Challenge yourself to achieve something you never thought possible. Get out of your comfort zone and do outrageous and fun things that scare you a little and make life exciting. Remember, the greatest achievements come from those who dare to dream big and take bold steps (yes, even the teeny tiny ones).
To sum up: Why not approach the challenge of how to master your mindset from a new perspective? Do the recommended things like meditation, challenging negative thoughts and setting goals, but do some outrageous things too. Embrace your wandering mind, see negative things as fuel and set daring goals. The power of the mind is great, and by mastering your own mindset, you’ll set a new course for your life.
As the great philosopher Marcus Aurelius once said, “The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.”
Take charge of your mindset. You’re the only one responsible for wielding the mighty tool of your mind.
Let us know if any of these tips worked for you by shooting us an email. We’d love to hear about the incredible ways your life has changed as a result. As always, don’t forget to join the blue-foot flock. We’re looking for a tribe of quirky followers who want to learn about positive ways to change their lives!
