Mindset Matters: How To Rewire The Brain

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July 2, 2024

By Margot Rutigliano, CPT, Certified Health Coach

Have you ever heard the phrase, “your mindset creates your reality”? The thoughts we think, the stories we have written about ourselves, and the beliefs that we hold about ourselves are all true to us. We believe them. Some may be good, and some may not be - a very normal part of the human experience.

The problem arises when we have a tough time breaking free from some of these negative thoughts and beliefs. Most of us have been through challenging situations, traumatic events, or other circumstances and we’ve developed these thoughts and stories along the way. According to Entrepreneur.com, "Our subconscious mind basically does two things. First, it runs old programs we've taught it, automating much of our day. Second, it works to protect us and keep us safe. While this is tremendously helpful, the subconscious mind has its drawbacks.” Among those drawbacks is a type of protection shield that the subconscious uses to ensure safety. While it can be incredibly helpful, it can also hinder us from persisting forward and changing these stories.


How Can We Rewire The Brain?

You might have heard of the term, neuroplasticity. According to PositivePsychology.com, “It refers to the brain’s ability to adapt. When we learn something new, we create new connections between our neurons. We rewire our brains to adapt to new circumstances. This happens on a daily basis, but it’s also something that we can encourage and stimulate.”

The key to harnessing neuroplasticity lies in repetition. Repeating positive thoughts and behaviors consistently over time can help to form new neural pathways, effectively rewiring the brain to support new, healthier habits and beliefs. This is where tools such as affirmations come into play. Using affirmations can help to promote a positive mindset and rewire the brain through consistent repetition.

When most people think of affirmations, they generally default to the typical “I am” affirmations. They can be incredibly useful and these are what most people are familiar with. They’re a great place to start and, according to some experts, can help solidify your personal power in your beliefs. That being said, there are many different types of affirmations.

Here is a list of some of the various types:

  • I am

  • I feel

  • I do

  • I love

  • I speak

  • I see

  • I understand

Affirmations can be free-flowing as well. They can also begin with a question. A few examples might be:

  • Isn’t it wonderful that I am valued and respected by my colleagues?

  • I’m the luckiest person on the planet because I always end up in the right place at the right time.

In case you’ve ever struggled with knowing what to say or where to start with affirmations, here’s a list of ideas to inspire you:

  • I am beautiful

  • I am kind

  • I am smart

  • I feel energetic

  • I am unique

  • I am sweet

  • I am sensual

  • I see beauty all around me

  • I am glowing from the inside out

 
 

  • I am successful

  • I love everything about myself

  • I listen to gain understanding before I speak

  • I am thoughtful

  • I am a clear communicator

  • I always show up with kindness

  • I always assume the best

  • I speak love into the world

  • I am amazing

  • I shine like a bright star

  • I am magnetic and people are attracted to me

  • I understand how my authenticity impacts others

  • I am humble

  • I feel grounded and down to earth

  • I am consistent

  • I respect myself

  • I respect my boundaries

  • I prioritize my happiness

  • I am steadfast in my love for myself

  • I am romantic

  • I am soft and gentle

  • I am committed to what’s most important to me

  • I always show up as my best self

  • I attract abundance

  • I’m laid back

  • I always follow through

  • I have glowing skin

  • My smile lights up a room

  • I am confident in my skills and tools


The Key That Most People Are Missing: Find a Tool That Works For You

While affirmations are a powerful tool, it's important to recognize that they are just one of many methods available to rewire the brain. Other tools include meditation, visualization, gratitude practices, journaling, and mindfulness. The most important thing is finding the right tool for you. Each person is unique, and what works for one individual may not work for another. Experiment with different techniques and find what resonates best with you.


Changing Your Mindset Requires Commitment To Yourself

By regularly practicing affirmations and other positive mindset tools, we can leverage the power of neuroplasticity to rewire our brains. Over time, this can help us break free from negative thoughts and beliefs, creating a more positive and empowering reality.

This means giving as much dedication to your mindset practice as you would to any other change you’re trying to make. It means showing up for yourself every single day. Finding a schedule for mindset and holding yourself accountable to your practice is incredibly important.



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Mindset is everything. Release the old to welcome a new way of thinking, believing, and being.

Discover the power of your own mind. Build the foundation for better emotional regulation, sound skills to more adequately cope with challenges, and begin developing a more optimistic outlook to cultivate peace, calm, and to achieve any goals you set out to accomplish. This journey is packed full of tools to support your journey:

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