We can\u2019t not do stuff, we can\u2019t just stop it, (though I JUST LOVE Bob Newhart\u2019s video – Stop It \u2013 link below if you haven\u2019t already watched it)<\/p>\n
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We need to replace things. Think of your time and your mind as a space that needs to be filled 100%, like even a half empty-half full glass is not really empty, it is half filled with water and half filled with air. So, when you want to stop doing or thinking something, you need to make it easier for yourself by consciously and decisively replacing the thought or habit with something else. Because it takes time to replace habits, especially neurological ones, it makes sense to carefully select a truly empowering habit to replace the old ones with.<\/p>\n
In your relationships especially as a parent, the same trick works wonders but you need to add an extra step which is adding the reason, instead of telling your child not to scream, request him or her to speak sweetly so you can understand them better. Instead of asking your friend not to be late, request them to be early so that you can be on time.\u00a0 Getting it?<\/p>\n
In fact someone recently made fun of me because he felt I was using Negative language and called myself a professional coach trained in Ontological Coaching and in NLP, and yet my previous book is titled “Don’t Think of a Blue Ball”, well, I guess he didn’t “get it”.<\/p>\n
Easy stuff, just practice and please share your examples.<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t Talk\u00a0 ***\u00a0 Sit Quietly for a 5 minutes<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t Smoke *** Let\u2019s be really healthy and avoid all forms of carcinogenics for a week<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t eat fattening food *** I\u2019m eating fresh & light food this month<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t irritate me *** Please talk facing me without gum in your mouth<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t be late *** Please be there at 1:55, so we can start on time<\/p>\n
I don\u2019t want to think about him\/her *** I am focusing on my talents and work<\/p>\n
I won\u2019t get drunk *** I will sleep sober to wake up without a headache tomorrow.<\/p>\n
I don’t want to be so moody and depressed *** I will practice smiling and thinking of fun stuff<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t make a mess *** Please keep the place neat and tidy<\/p>\n
I don\u2019t want to fail *** I will succeed<\/p>\n
I\u2019m not good enough, fit enough, rich enough *** I am good enough<\/p>\n
I\u2019m fat *** I am becoming healthier and more fit each day<\/p>\n
I won\u2019t spend so much *** I will practice mindful sharing of my resources<\/p>\n
Don’t Think of a Blue Ball *** Think of a Red Balloon<\/p>\n
These are just a few examples of how you can successfully replace disempowering habits in your life and habits in your self \u2013 talk.<\/p>\n
Please share your examples.<\/p>\n