It probably sounds cliché…
however, it’s been on my mind, every day in every way that I have to be intentional about my choices. How about you? How to make the right choices? Have you been thinking positively or negatively? Maybe you’re like me on some days and try not to think at all. Have you spent a normal or an abnormal time on social media and/or the news? I’m not sure how to define normal or abnormal so your own perception of normal or abnormal for you works in this question!
I ask because I believe thinking directly impacts your feelings, and the way you feel about something ultimately influences what you do. The thought comes first – the way you feel about the thought then drives behavior.
We must protect our thoughts…
We can choose the negative, scary, painful path. Sometimes that path pops up with no warning at all. The challenge then becomes whether or not you go down that road or decide, what else could be true. Can I take the next fork in the road and follow a more positive or hopeful path?
What helps me – The 3rd or 4th option…
When I get stuck in being overly negative or positive is to practice thinking of at least 3 ways something could be. 2 choices are nothing more than an ultimatum. The stark choice of this or that shrinks a person’s ability to be creative or hopeful and is often paralyzing. I’m certain in that last several weeks the thought of: “What is life going to look like if (x) doesn’t happen”, or “What is coming next” or “I’m going to fail”, may have even come to mind. Look, at these 2 choices – I’m going to fail or succeed. Really? Is that all there is? What could choice number 3 be? If you can’t think of something then go ask someone else. It’s too easy to get stuck in your own head. Remember YOU are in charge of what you believe to be true. That is the reality and what you believe is what will drive your actions.
When I Fail – I choose to Fail Forward…
In prepping this article on how to make the right choices, I started researching the science of positive thinking. I thought it would be easier for you to buy into my “rah rah” newsletter today if I included real science. There’s an entire psychological study dedicated to the power of positive thinking. The very BEST business book I’ve read on the subject (and it includes the science) is written by Shirzad Chamine – Positive Intelligence. I don’t think there’s been a better time to read or listen to this book.
Finally, for those of you who need something shorter than a book and potentially a video to go with it, you must take 10 minutes a listen to Denzel Washington’s presentation to a graduating class. He asks, “Do you have the guts to fail?”
Message to You…
I am so inspired by every business owner in today’s climate. The sheer GUTS you have to do all that must be done right now is nothing short of real bravery. To the team members who’ve had to wade through all the uncertainty of reduced hours, unemployment, is it safe to be around other people and more-you are incredible. I know so many people who have volunteered to work, help, not work, support others in any way they can. The entire Trainertainment team is so grateful for the moments we have spent on our weekly Peer Talk call on Wednesdays at 1 PM Central Time. It is truly the highlight of our week. Make sure to register here to be a part of this weekly call. There are brilliant minds on these calls every week and what we know is that in a time where we could not all be physically together, this meeting of the minds has been one of the best things we have ever done. Maybe you can discover how to make the right choices and feel good about it. I believe this is an extraordinary time where the unintended outcomes are that we are a better world, a better people, and a better place, whether at home, work, church, or school, where we are truly in service to others. The best is yet to come.
