Mental hurdles, limiting beliefs, and unpleasant thoughts – trapped in quicksand – show up for all of us. It’s natural and normal. Thoughts and words are powerful and we have to be careful not to let mental hurdles completely derail us from living our best life.
What we think these mental hurdles, how we talk to ourselves, and the ways in which we deal with these thoughts or ideas is what can make or break us.
If you find yourself being crushed by an anvil laden with limiting beliefs, here are some tips to free up some mental space:
Talk to yourself
It is important for you to recognize when you are experiencing a mental hurdle. Some of us are so used to operating this way that we don’t even realize what’s going on when it’s happening. When you notice the negative thought quicksand encapsulating you – call it out. You may want to write it down or record yourself talking about it.
Step out of the vortex of angry talk
Monitor what you are saying to yourself. Be gentle and kinder with your inner thoughts and dialogue. Nurture yourself.
Stop fanning the flames of negativity
Pinpoint the trigger that is feeding your stress or discomfort. Step back and recalibrate. Check the accuracy of any negative thoughts by ask yourself, “Is this absolutely true?”
Face the mental hurdle
Ignoring the challenge will not make the thoughts go away. Take control of your time and seek support. It is OK to lean on others when you are struggling.
Steer clear of anger collectors
When you seek out help and support, make sure you are reaching out to the right people. Connect with people who will support you and not judge you. Avoid people who are keep score and like to hangout in a hot tub of angry thinking.
Take some time off
For many people, negative thoughts arise when we are overstretched, taxed, and tired. This is a good time to take a break or take some time off. Spend more time relaxing, connecting with your body, and refueling. Think of this as a mental vacation that will give your body time to do some thought reconstruction.
Increase your positivity intake
Spending more time in positive situations can reconfigure your thinking process when mental hurdles show up. Create an uplifting and empowering music playlist. Collect inspiring quotes you can look at and read when limiting beliefs show up. Surround yourself with beauty that will shift your mood when your angry talk recording starts to play in your head.
What other strategies or techniques do you use to get over mental hurdles?
