5 Ways to Change Your Thinking

“We can’t solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them.”  Albert Einstein.

How do you change your thinking so you can solve problems more effectively? Here are five ways to get started:

1. Don’t assume your personality is immutable.

“I’m stubborn.” “I don’t remember names well.” “I’m a control freak.” Unless you love what comes after “I’m” and it serves you well, don’t just accept it as truth. If it doesn’t serve you, change it. I spent years defining myself in relationships as being emotionally needy….gosh, do you think that was effective?

2. Don’t assume that because something doesn’t immediately appeal to you that it’s not a good idea.

For example, I generally dislike watching videos for information just because I’m more used to reading.  I’ve learned, though, that videos are a very effective communication tool, so I’m considering them in a new light to use in my marketing. Or maybe you’ve always exercised alone, but you want to take your fitness to a new level. Perhaps then now is the time to consider a workout buddy or trainer.  As your needs change, maybe your preferences should, too.

3. Shake things up.

Take a different route to work. Eat a different lunch. Read a book you normally wouldn’t read. Let in change and let your gray matter shift around.

4. Pick one thing you really want to change and be your own thought police.

Let’s say it’s your weight.  Are you telling yourself how hard it will be lose weight? How you hate exercise? That you can’t resist french fries? That’s the same mind that created the extra pounds.  Change your thinking and you will change your results. When you think, you’re creating your future, so be careful to create what you want.

5.  Fake it.

What would someone who’s successful at this do?  Put yourself in someone else’s shoes and fake it until you make it. How would a rich person look at whether to spend the money: Would it be worth it to sacrifice quality to save a few dollars? How would a thin person view that piece of chocolate cake: As a lifeline to happiness or as unnecessary calories after already eating a brownie?  How would a happy person handle the situation: By complaining or by changing what can be changed and rolling along with the rest?

What are you trying to change in your life and what approach do you take?

2 Comments

  1. Dr Bridget on 16 June 2013 at 10:43 am

    I like the “thought police” concept. The trick is to notice the thoughts and that becomes easier with time. I used to be more aware of the feelings and they come from thoughts in general, so its useful to find the thoughts. Txs for the post



  2. Meg_Bertini on 16 June 2013 at 11:55 am

    Glad you found it helpful! And yes, it does comes easier with time, thankfully.