This quote has resonated strongly with me lately, and today I will explore its meaning.
A few months back, I wrote a post about challenging our beliefs, citing a pivotal moment when Roger Bannister shattered the world record by running a mile in under 4 minutes. Before his remarkable feat in 1954, it was widely held that such a feat was impossible, even dangerous. However, after Bannister’s accomplishment, a paradigm shift occurred. Suddenly, what was once deemed unattainable became a reality for many. In the year following Bannister’s achievement, 37 people ran a mile in under 4 minutes. The following year 300 more people achieved this feat. This event underscored the power of belief – once the mind embraces possibility, remarkable achievements follow suit.
How can we use and apply this phenomenon to our lives? We must be mindful and intentional about our self-talk. Our minds are naturally wired to remember negative experiences and are apt to try to protect us from danger by repeatedly warning us about what can go wrong. To counteract this, we can choose a few “power thoughts” to intentionally repeat and write down. You may feel resistant to making positive statements to yourself, because you believe your negative thoughts protect you from disappointment. Trust me – they do not. You will be amazed at what happens when you let them go.
Think about your goals and where you would like to be a few months or a year down the road. Then create positive present tense statements that let you mind know this is possible. I will give you some examples related to weight loss, but this can be applied to any goal:
“I make choices that nourish my body and support a healthy weight.”
“I navigate cravings with ease.”
“My body is fit and healthy.”
“I release unhealthy habits and get closer to my weight goals each week.”
Use these or create your own “power thought” statements. Each morning, write these down in a journal. Writing them by hand is important, do not use a phone or computer. Repeat them to yourself in your head when you are doing mundane activities like driving or washing dishes. Before bed, write these down again. Your subconscious is most open to suggestions in the morning and evening. You will see how life unfolds to support you when you believe your goals are possible.
Let me know if you need help with coming up with some power thought statements specific to your situation! Create your reality in your mind so it can come to fruition in your daily life.
