I attended a presentation on State of Mind by a gentleman named Jim Ryan, and I realized how important our state of mind at work is to the interactions we have with our co-workers, bosses, employees and customers. We all have a choice on whether we keep our positive and negative thoughts. We can’t help getting those thoughts, but we decide how long we hold on to them.
Research shows that the brain can change based on repeated experience. Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to restructure itself after training or practice. This means that happiness isn’t something we are pre-disposed to; it’s a state of mind we can create. Neuroplasticity can help us actually change our brain pathways. For example, if we talk about the things we are grateful for and don’t take those things for granted, we begin to train our brain to be happy. If we constantly complain about how bad we have it, we train our brain to be unhappy.
You may have heard the saying, “Positive things happen to positive people.” Here’s why. It’s the placebo effect. When people think they are doing something or getting something that is going to help them, they often feel better, even if it is a placebo, because they believe.
At work, we all have people that frustrate us. Instead of complaining about them, replace those thoughts with positive thoughts about that person. Think to yourself, “I love this guy.” Take the negativity and let it go. Start talking about the good stuff. These habits help you get to a better natural state of mind. Try a 30 second breathing exercise. Try not to think about anything. When a negative thought comes into your mind, focus on the breathing and let it go. You will feel much more relaxed after the 30 seconds. Imagine doing that 3 times a day for 5 minutes. Train your brain.
It’s true that 50% of our personality is from our genetics. We can’t do anything about it. 10 % is influenced by circumstances we cannot control. But that leaves a whole 40% that we can influence.
If we truly want to start creating a peaceful natural state of mind we have to focus on the positive, and the first step to doing that is to be aware of the good around us. Simply notice all the good in your life and at work. Resist the urge to complain, rather talk about the good. The more you talk about it the happier you will feel. Changing your habit from complaining to praising will help you get to a better natural state of mind. And when you reach a better state of mind, people will sense it and be more inclined to respond in a positive way. Who knows, maybe you can change their brain pathways as well.
Thoughts…….. Contact me at abbe@TECResourceCenter.com