About this episode
Today I want to help you Take Control of Your Life. Sometimes we might feel like LIFE is out of control or forces outside ourselves are running the show. But, use these 9 strategies to take the wheel and start controlling your life in every area. And, PLEASE share this show with at least one person you feel would benefit from its message. Here are the 9 strategeis for taking control of your life...enjoy 1-Take Good Care of Yourself- It's much easier to be positive when you are eating well, exercising, and getting enough rest. 2-Remind Yourself of the Things You Are Grateful For- Stresses and challenges don't seem quite as bad when you are constantly reminding yourself of the things that are right in life. Taking just 60 seconds a day to stop and appreciate the good things will make a huge difference. 3-Look for the Proof Instead of Making Assumptions- A fear of not being liked or accepted sometimes leads us to assume that we know what others are thinking, but our fears are usually not reality. If you have a fear that a friend or family member's bad mood is due to something you did, or that your co-workers are secretly gossiping about you when you turn your back, speak up and ask them. Don't waste time worrying that you did something wrong unless you have proof that there is something to worry about. 4-Refrain from Using Absolutes- Have you ever told a partner "You're ALWAYS late!" or complained to a friend "You NEVER call me!"? Thinking and speaking in absolutes like 'always' and 'never' makes the situation seem worse than it is, and programs your brain into believing that certain people are incapable of delivering. 5-Detach From Negative Thoughts- Your thoughts can't hold any power over you if you don't judge them. If you notice yourself having a negative thought, detach from it, witness it, and don't follow it. 6-Squash the "ANTs"- In his book "Change Your Brain, Change Your Life," Dr. Daniel Amen talks about "ANTs" - Automatic Negative Thoughts. These are the bad thoughts that are usually reactionary, like "Those people are laughing, they must be talking about me," or "The boss wants to see me? It must be bad!" When you notice these thoughts, realize that they are nothing more than ANTs and squash them! 7-Increase Your Social Activity- By increasing social activity, you decrease loneliness. Surround yourself with healthy, happy people, and their positive energy will affect you in a positive way! 8-Volunteer for an Organization, or Help another Person- Everyone feels good after helping. You can volunteer your time, your money, or your resources. The more positive energy you put out into the world, the more you will receive in return. 9-Use Pattern Interrupts to Combat Rumination- If you find yourself ruminating, a great way to stop it is to interrupt the pattern and force yourself to do something completely different. Rumination is like hyper-focus on something negative. It's never productive, because it's not rational or solution-oriented, it's just excessive worry. Try changing your physical environment - go for a walk or sit outside. You could also call a friend, pick up a book, or turn on some music. Thanks for listening. G