The nature of thought is complex and fascinating, and it plays a crucial role in shaping our moods, our actions, and the way we live our lives. Our thoughts are the result of our experiences, our beliefs, and our perceptions of the world, and they can have a powerful influence on how we feel and what we do.
One of the key insights about the nature of thought is that we have the power to control our thoughts. While we cannot always control what thoughts enter our minds, we can choose which thoughts we grab hold of and which ones we let float away like butterflies. By becoming aware of our thoughts and understanding that they are just thoughts we are able to direct them away from us or towards us which in turn can improve our moods, our behaviour, and our overall well-being.
We have to choose to let our thoughts control the way we feel. For example, if we find ourselves ruminating on negative or unhelpful thoughts, such as self-doubt or worry, we can choose to let these thoughts float away and instead focus on more positive and empowering thoughts. This can involve using positive self-talk, visualisation, or mindfulness to redirect our attention and to cultivate more helpful and uplifting thoughts.
By practicing in this way, we can learn to manage our moods and to shape our lives in more positive and fulfilling ways. We can choose to focus on the good things in our lives, on our goals and aspirations, and on the things that bring us joy and satisfaction.
In addition to the power to control our thoughts in the present moment, it is also important to recognise that our thoughts are often influenced by our past experiences and memories. Our memories are just thoughts from the past that we have dragged forward into the present, and they can have a profound influence on the way we think, feel, and behave.
For example, if we have experienced a traumatic or upsetting event in the past, such as a car accident, bullying at school or our parents have divorced, we may have vivid and distressing memories of that event that can continue to affect us in the present. These memories can trigger negative emotions, such as fear, anxiety, or sadness, and they can also influence our beliefs and behaviours. For example, we may avoid driving or traveling to certain places because of these memories.
On the other hand, our memories can also be a source of positive influence. If we have happy or meaningful memories of past experiences, such as a childhood holiday or a special achievement at school, these memories can bring us joy and satisfaction in the present. They can also inspire us to set goals and to pursue new opportunities based on our past successes and experiences.
When we recognise the role of our memories in shaping our thoughts and our lives in the present moment, we can learn to manage and control our thoughts in ways that support our well-being and our goals.
In addition to the influence of past experiences and memories on our thoughts, it is also important to recognise that we have the power to let go of negative or unhelpful thoughts from the past. Just as we can choose to let go of negative or unhelpful thoughts in the present moment, we can also give ourselves permission to let go of past thoughts that no longer serve us, that not longer make our life better.
For example, if we find ourselves ruminating on past mistakes or regrets, we can choose to let these thoughts float away and to focus on the present moment instead. By letting go of these negative thoughts from the past, we can free ourselves from the burden of regret and guilt, and we can make space for more positive and empowering thoughts.
It is important to recognise, however, that letting go of past thoughts is not always easy. We may have a strong emotional attachment to certain thoughts, and it can be difficult to let them go. In these cases, it can be helpful to seek help from a hypnotherapist who can unchain the emotions behind these thoughts so that they don’t keep you anchored to the past but you are free to propel yourself forward in a positive and productive way.
Overall, the power to control our thoughts extends to the past as well as the present. By giving ourselves permission to let go of negative or unhelpful thoughts from the past, we can free ourselves from the burden of regret and guilt and we can improve our happiness and well-being in the present moment.
In addition to the influence of past experiences and memories on our thoughts, it is also important to recognize that our thoughts about the future can also have a powerful influence on our moods and our behaviour. Our minds often drift to the future, and we may try to predict what will happen next or to anticipate potential challenges and opportunities.
However, it is important to recognise that these thoughts about the future are just that – thoughts. They are not reality, and they are not necessarily accurate or helpful. In many cases, our thoughts about the future are based on our past experiences and our beliefs, and as we do not have crystal ball it is doubtful if they will reflect the true nature of the future.
One common problem with our thoughts about the future is that we often predict the worst-case scenario. This can lead to worry, stress, and anxious thinking, and it can prevent us from enjoying the present moment. By focusing on the potential negative outcomes, we may miss out on the opportunities and the joys that are available to us in the present.
To overcome this tendency to predict the worst-case scenario, it is important to practice mindfulness and to focus on the present moment. By paying attention to our thoughts and choosing to let go of negative or unhelpful thoughts about the future, we can improve our moods and our well-being in the present. We can also learn to approach the future with curiosity and openness, rather than with fear and anxiety.
In conclusion, the nature of thought is complex and fascinating, and it plays a crucial role in shaping our moods, our actions, and the way we live our lives. Our thoughts are influenced by our past experiences and memories, as well as by our anticipations of the future, and they can have a powerful influence on how we feel and what we do.
However, it is important to recognise that thoughts are ultimately meaningless and have no power over us unless we give them permission to become part of our lives. We have the power to choose which thoughts we grab hold of and which ones we let float away like butterflies, and this choice can have a profound impact on our moods, our behaviour, and the way we live our lives.
By recognizing the power of our thoughts and by learning to control and direct our thoughts in positive and productive directions, we can improve our moods and our overall well-being. We can choose to focus on the good things in our lives, on our goals and aspirations, and on the things that bring us joy and satisfaction. We can also learn to let go of negative or unhelpful thoughts from the past and to approach the future with curiosity and openness.
Overall, it is our choice to choose the life we want to live, and our thoughts are an important part of this choice. By recognizing the power of our thoughts and by learning to control and direct them in positive ways, we can improve our moods, our behaviour, and the way we live our lives.
Carol Andrew Hypnotherapy & Coaching 