The Mind MATTERS

Meaning of ‘Matters’ in this context:

1.     A physical substance created from our thoughts

2.     Concerns/ Circumstances

Gazing at the finish line that was now in full sight, memories of when I first began started to swamp my mind. The adrenaline I initially felt was steadily creeping back as I realised that I was ACTUALLY going to complete this; regardless of the fact that other things I embarked upon did not get any further than take off.

Nevertheless, I pondered on whether or not I felt any different? Was there anything indicating a real difference in my thinking, or was this whole process a waste of time?

As I reflectively assessed my progress, by pulling away the optimistic veneer that could so easily cloud my judgement; I really was not sure how I felt about the whole thing.

I had mixed emotions of excitement, to slight apprehension from that underwhelming feeling of ‘is that it?’!

I thought that by day 20 of this Brain Detox*, the changes would be so radical; I would suddenly become this brand new person with a completely different thought life that I so eagerly yearned and prayed for.

There and then I suddenly became aware of what was going on in my mind, and how even before this habit-forming three week exercise was complete, I had already reverted back to thinking negatively about the whole thing.

Very swiftly I made the conscious decision to replace these destructive thoughts by questioning how I so hastily assumed the process was not working.

Why did I expect sudden transformation, in an area that I had developed over many years of wrong thinking?

I also told myself that these 21 days were to set precedent of how I needed to proactively ‘choose’ to think positively. A precedent of making right decisions, as my thoughts would ultimately become my actions. A precedent that would turn this new habit into a lifestyle, and it was a choice that only I could make!

The realisation of the thoughts I had just processed, and how I reacted; suddenly shed light to the fact that contrary to my initial feelings, I had indeed made vast progress in how I dealt with the ‘matters of my mind’.

I had fought the toxicity that came to mind, replaced it and had a better outlook, which immediately changed the way I felt.

This was something that would never have happened a couple of weeks prior, and I knew that this new awareness would help dispel any thoughts of doubt that may try to form again.

I knew victory was sure for me, because it lay not in the crossing of the finish line, but in the winning attitude maintained during the course of the race.

I have just scratched the surface, but it has given me a boost into seeing a much brighter future. A purpose filled destiny awaits me, as I continue to take those necessary steps to becoming who I am meant to be: The Confident Woman.

* 21 Day Brain Detox by Dr. Caroline Leaf – Watch the accompanying Video Blog (Vlog) for more details about the programme and what led me to embark upon it.

Watch the Vlog below:

http://youtu.be/8qGMRpjKWLY

Mini Book Review: 

This book is good at explaining the process of renewing your mind, and the correlation between scriptural principles and science, something that is not often discussed or highlighted.

It assesses the importance of your mind, with emphasis on the powerful role of our thoughts and how they play out in our actual lives.

It also dispels many of the myths we have learnt or have been told about both the brain and our minds. It is very insightful, inspiring and informative.

The only major setback I encountered was the excessive use of scientific terminology, as it was a bit off putting at times.

Nevertheless, I didn’t let this distract me from completing the book, because before I embarked upon the detox programme. I wanted to get a better understanding of how the mind works, and as I mentioned in the blog; I was eager for change.

My suggestion: It is worth a read, as it outlines the basic 5 step learning process, which is the crux of the detox. (However, I believe you can still start the detox without having read the book).

All in all, it is generally a very good book, and you will definitely learn a thing or two that you wouldn't have thought were possible, and if like me you diligently go through the whole process: your life will change for the better.

Disclaimer: Please do not embark upon something without the conviction that you need it or that it is right for you. 

This is something I prayerfully chose to do because I believe it is what I need at this particular stage of my life/ journey. 

It has worked for me because I was eager for change and stayed committed to seeing it through.

The Grass is Greener

Peering over the fence she exclaims “There he goes again, mowing his lawn so early in the morning. He wastes so much time in his garden, and it’s not as if it’s going to look any different from how it did before!”

What is it about us persistently obsessing over what others are doing on their side of the fence?

We’ve heard it all before; be content and don’t compare yourself to others, because ‘the grass is not always greener on the other side’ contradicting the popular statement that says otherwise.

Yet in our human nature we try to measure ourselves up against others and constantly compare our lives and circumstances to theirs. We allow ourselves to feel somewhat inadequate and dissatisfied if we don’t measure up to what we feel is the standard.

There’s an internal rush of wanting more and wanting to be more, which in itself is not a bad thing, nevertheless the drive can often leave one feeling overwhelmingly empty when left without what we think we need.

With the increased popularity of social media; especially Instagram, the ‘layman’ now has easier access to peer into the lives of many "celebrities" who are “living” the life that they aspire to have.

It has also brought about a platform where everyone is now trying to ‘keep up with the Joneses’ and portraying a life that they feel is what people want to see and not actually their reality [but enough on this topic, I will leave it for another time, lest we get sidetracked].

Coming from a completely different perspective, I will submit to you that often times the grass is actually greener on the other side.

Yes, you read right, that wasn’t a typo. I repeat: the GRASS IS often GREENER!

Hear me out, before you totally switch off. It’s greener than yours for a reason. That reason a lot of times requires sacrifice and willingness on our part that often times we simply are not willing to make.

I may look at another person and think they have it all made out for them (and rightly so they may), however, have I ever stopped to ask the question “Am I willing to do what they did to get to where they are?

Have I got the resolve to see my vision through?...Ummm and there’s the answer!

Mr. Jones gets up early to tend HIS garden, fertilize HIS plants and mow HIS lawn. He invests HIS time, effort, and even money into beautifying HIS garden and making the lawn thrive. Yet there YOU are, not willing to lift a finger let alone consider getting your hands dirty, and you have the nerve to peer over the fence in jealousy, which then leads to subtle discontentment with your own life.

Ultimately it all boils down to the choices we make. Good or bad – there are always consequences or benefits. So lets choose wisely!

I think its time we stop peeking over the fence in envy and choose to do something about making our lawn look just as good if not better.

Is it creating healthier eating habits? Saving more money or just investing more time in the people that matter?...Then make the decision to act now, because what you sow is what you will reap. Period!

With that in mind, always remember to be grateful for what you have. Having a satisfaction in knowing that “I may not be where I want to be, but I am still grateful for who I am, what I have become and where I am heading”, brings about peace and quickens the process of reaching our desired goals.

Being grateful changes our perspectives on things and melts away envy, humbling us and bringing about an appreciation for the beauty in other gardens.

The grass may be greener on the other side, but you can do something about making sure that you are happy with how green yours is too. There really is no need to fall into the trap of what is now seen as prominent comparison.

Picture your grass how you know it ought to be, and then take the necessary steps to making it a reality. Sacrifice now to enjoy later, and see through that vision of a greener lawn!

Watch the accompanying Vlog below:

http://youtu.be/78ONCqKJ0H4?list=UUntLF4PfoUSCG5Nwdyw8H3g

Facebook Page