“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Philippians 4:8
A few weeks ago, as I was trying to get 1,000 things done, I had to put out a major argument between my two kids. It was brutal! One wanted a toy the other had and it was heading to be a fight to the death. I seemed to be able to dissipate the fight only for it start again moments later. After repeatedly redirecting the argument, they finally came up with a mutually beneficial arrangement of sharing the toy.
Later, as I thought about how my kids were stuck in that negative cycle, I felt a tug on my heart saying, “you can be like that too.” Whoa! When my circumstances are not what I want, my thinking can get stuck too.
We all struggle with negative thoughts; sometimes in our relationships (work, romantic, family, etc), but most often with ourselves. “I’ll never get it.” “I’m not good enough for that.” “I wish I was more like them.” Listen, even top athletes experience humiliating failure and loss. It’s a common battle for everyone. That’s why it’s important to recognize these negative thought patterns and learn how to re-route them. Acknowledge we have control over what we think.
Next time you find yourself jumping to conclusions or replaying arguments, take each negative thought and replace it with something that is “excellent or praiseworthy.”
Have a great week!
Coach Michelle
