Who’s in control: You or Your thoughts?

Our thoughts are like invisible companions—sometimes they cheer us on with words of encouragement, and other times they whisper doubts that hold us back. We know our thoughts shape our reality, but how deeply have we explored this idea? How do these internal dialogues influence our lives, and why should we pay closer attention to them?

Think of your thoughts as a muscle: the more you practice guiding them, the stronger they become. Your mind can be your greatest ally, lifting you up with inspiration, or it can act like a critic, dragging you into worry and fear. It’s often not what happens around us that troubles us, but how we respond. It’s like being annoyed by your neighbor’s red sweater—not because of the sweater itself, but because of what it stirs up inside you. The real problem is how we choose to react.

I remember being 23 years old, sitting in Nairobi, Africa, with a mind full of questions about life, purpose, and what it means to truly feel alive. It was there, surrounded by the vibrant energy of a new continent, that I began to understand how my own thoughts were shaping my experience. The simple exercises I started then still help me today to find clarity and joy amidst the noise of everyday life.

Exercise 1: Breaking the thought loop

Take a quiet moment and notice the thoughts running through your mind. Are there any recurring negative ones? Write them down without judgment. Then, reframe each thought into something positive. If you find yourself thinking, “I’ll never manage this,” change it to, “I’m learning, and every step forward counts.” Repeat these new affirmations every morning to start your day with a more supportive mindset.

Exercise 2: The power of a pause

The next time a stressful thought pops up, silently tell yourself, “Pause.” Take a deep breath and ask, “Is this thought really true? Can I shift my focus?” Most of the time, you’ll find the worry wasn’t necessary. By taking this brief moment, you give yourself the chance to choose a kinder, calmer response.

Our outer world is a reflection of our inner world. The more we become aware of our thoughts, the easier it is to choose responses that bring joy and ease into our lives. When we turn our thoughts into allies, we unlock a deeper sense of freedom and peace.

“You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean, in a drop.” – Rumi

Much Love,

Rose 🌹