Thursday, September 24, 2009

De-Stress Thursday

One big tip for changing the way you think

Twelve Personal Commandments

I’ve become a believer in catchphrases. Each day, I re-read my Twelve Commandments (see above), and I know that having these ideas fresh in my mind really does influence my behavior.

I also have catchphrases posted in strategic places around my house – “Enthusiastic and creative” is on my desk, “Quiet mind” is in the bedroom, etc.

Studies show that by keeping certain ideas active and accessible through review and repetition, you can shape the way you think.

I’ve been asking other people for the phrases they repeat to themselves for inspiration or reassurance. Some people get their catchphrases from Virginia Woolf or T. S. Eliot or the Bible; some people get them from popular culture; some people make up their own.

Here are some good ones I’ve heard:

There’s no wrong decision here.
Patience.
Always say hello.
Cut people slack.
What would my mother do?
Actually, this is good for us.
On, Stanley, on.
React to the situation.
Be easy to please.
Lighten up, Francis.
Fake it ‘till you make it.
One day at a time.
Expect a miracle.
At the still point of the turning world.
Will this matter next year?
Be still, and know that I am God.
Remember, everyone’s doing their best all the time.
Get a hold of yourself, Meredith!
Say yes.
People succeed in groups.
Recognize my ghosts.
Down with boredom.
I love Leo, just as he is.
Catch the rushing breeze.
Play the hand I’m dealt.
Do nothing, go nowhere.
If it doesn’t fit one way, then turn it around.
If things aren’t going to plan, it’s time to change the plan.
What would I do if I weren’t scared?

What do YOU tell yourself?? Self talk matters!!!
_______________________

Written by Gretchen Rubin

14 comments:

Mrs. M said...

I do self-talk all the time, but have been thinking about writing something down like you have, I need to get on that! Happy Thursday!

Kathy B! said...

I'm pretty sure fake it til you make it is tattoed on my forehead.

Brooke said...

Fake it ‘till you make it. i'm working on this one - and doing fairly good too. the hubs tells me i'm getting cocky! :P

Sherri Murphy said...

"And this too shall pass."

It is so true.

Intense Guy said...

"Sometimes you just got to laugh"

:)

Grand Pooba said...

Hmmm, I know I talk to myself all the time but it's mostly about how good this coffee is, or why I think Gwen Stafani is the shit.

kel said...

I talk to myself all the time, but it's usually cursing... does that count?

House Queen said...

You should seriously check out my blog today!!!

Unknown said...

and this is why you are so happy you rock!

Melissa Miller said...

Love this cute post Jeannie!

Thanks for the encouragement on my latest post! I really appreciate it. We are loving Mrs Dash too. It's delish!

~Blessings my freind, ~Melissa :)

Anonymous said...

Fabulous commandments! These will definitely be copied down by me for daily reminders!

The Blonde Duck said...

I tell myself all sorts of crazy things, so I like your list better.

Deanna said...

There are two:

Keep on keeping on

and

Don't sweat the small stuff - and it's all small

LadyStyx said...

Just breathe.