“Cease negative mental chattering. If you think a thing is impossible, you'll make it impossible. Pessimism blunts the tools you need to succeed.”
- Bruce Lee
I’m inspired by bound dissertations displayed in the library of the university where I work, as they prompt me to think about the dedication of their creators, many of whom likely experienced doubt along their journey. When big goals overwhelm us, we may view them as impossible. Negative self-talk often rises up during times like these. Yet how do we “cease negative mental chattering”?
Rather than focusing on stopping negative self-talk, consider what you can replace it with. What we most need is encouragement when we decide to pursue a lofty goal—whether it’s writing a dissertation, sticking to an exercise routine, changing eating habits, making a career change or any other major shift. While coaches, trainers and others can offer excellent support, don’t forget about yourself. When we envision what it would feel like to have accomplished the goal and commit to working toward it a little bit at a time, we can boost our momentum and minimize negative thoughts. Instead of draining our reserves by dwelling on the perceived impossibility of a goal, we can devote our energy to action.
What would it feel like to accomplish your goal? How can you work toward it gradually?
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