9 Ways to Reprogram Negative Thoughts

Ever find yourself stuck in a funk, with negative thoughts swirling around in your head like a bad playlist on repeat?

Recently it dawned on me that I didn’t have to stay in that negativity vortex.

And so, Today, I’m going to share a few simple techniques that will help you turn those negative, gloomy thoughts into a more positive, uplifting perspective.

Here are 9 ways you can reprogram those negative thoughts for better results next time.

9 Ways to Reprogram Negative Thoughts

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1) Pay Attention to the Thought Patterns.

Pay attention to your thought patterns. I’m not saying you need to become a detective, but it helps to notice the thoughts that pop up– especially the negative ones that keep on repeating.

When you catch yourself thinking things like, “I’ll never be good enough” or “Everything always goes wrong for me,” take note of it.

This self-talk can shape your reality because your subconscious listens to and acts on every thought you feed it.

As spiritualist Lucy Malory says, “All events, whether personal or in societies, begin with thought.” So, to really understand yourself (and others), you have to look at the thoughts that lead to those events.

Once you recognize these negative patterns, you can start challenging them and changing your mindset.

2) Flip the Script.

Think of negative thoughts as those annoying pop-up ads.

X them all out, –nobody got time for this.

You can either let them take over your screen or click that little X and close them out.

Challenge those negative thoughts by asking yourself, “Is this really true?” or “Is there another way to look at this?”

Once you do, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can turn things around.

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3) Finding Your Gratitude Groove.

Gratitude is like a magic potion for turning negativity into positivity.

No, I’m not joking, gratitude is your superpower in this wicked world.

Take a moment each day to think about three things you’re grateful for.

It could be something big, like landing your dream job, or something small, like a hot cup of coffee, or tea on a chilly morning.

Gratitude has a way of shifting your focus from what’s wrong to what’s -so-right and appreciative about your life’s situation. As Tolle would say.

4) Stop criticizing yourself about vices you haven’t yet overcome, just stay curious on how you will outwit the devil next time. Honor the process.

Instead of beating yourself up over every little mistake, show yourself some love and compassion.

Treat yourself like you would a best friend – with kindness, understanding, and a healthy dose of encouragement.

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5) Surrounding Yourself with Sunshine.

Maybe you’re familiar with the saying that you are the average of five people you surround yourself with. If not, it’s an idea to consider whenever you find yourself on side of the majority, as Mark Twain reminds us, it’s time to pause and reflect. And that too, goes for all moral virtues and ethics.

Positive, uplifting people can lift you higher and even make you smile. Those are people I seek. If someone’s brings you down more than they’re lift you, it might be time to reevaluate that friendship.

6) Get Your Zen On.

Ever notice how your mind feels clearer after a good ass yoga stretch or some other type of meditative activity?

That’s because these sort of practices helps you hit the reset button by rebooting your brain’s wave.

Take a few minutes each day to breathe deeply. To clear your mind, and to connect with the present moment. Whether that’s going for a walk, practicing yoga, swimming, sitting meditation, writing, making art, all are activities that can help you tap into the here and now.

You’ll feel a lot better, I promise.

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7) Setting Goals and Celebrating Wins.

When it comes to ways to reprograming negative thoughts, setting goals can give you something positive to focus on. You do that by breaking down those big, scary, audacious goals that you have, into bite-sized chunks.

After when you’ve completed a “bite-sized chunk,” celebrate your efforts. Regardless how “insignificant” they may seem to you.

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8) Get Creative.

Expressing yourself creatively is therapy for your mind.

If you’re into making music, then keep making the damn music. That goes for any other kinds of creative projects: Writing, photography, you name it, simply allow your creative juices to flow.

It never ceases to amaze me how a little creative expression we need to shake off those negative vibes and bring a smile to our faces.

9) Letting Go of Grudges.

Holding onto grudges is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die.

It only hurts you in the end.

So let go of that anger and resentment – not for their sake, but for yours. Forgiveness is like hitting the delete button on negativity, leaving you free to focus on all the good stuff life has to offer.

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Final Thoughts.

So, there you have it, my friend – 9 Ways to Reprogram Negative Thoughts.

Remember, you’re in control of your thoughts. Not the other way around.

By challenging these 9 ways to reprogram negative thoughts, you will gradually make space for: practicing gratitude, self-compassion, positivity, goal setting, silence, creativity, letting go of grudges, and ultimately transforming your life in remarkable ways.

Find what works best for you, cultivate the necessary habit to be better than before. As Roman emperor, Marcus Aurelius reminds us, “You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”

Take care.

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All photos are courtesy of the author