Changing our negativity bias – 12 Months of Abundance

Just as negative beliefs at some point entered your subconscious mind, and began to subtly shape your lives,
new, positive beliefs can also be “planted” there: beliefs that will gradually begin to improve
your behavior, your thinking, the way you feel, and thus, your life.
– David Bolton

Reframe our thoughts

A life of abundance is defined as “abounding fullness of joy and strength for spirit, soul and body.” And to me, one of the worst things we can do to sabotage that abundance is to participate in negativity. So I thought I’d use April’s 12 Months of Abundance planner page and post as an opportunity to look at how we can reframe our thoughts and create positivity from our built in bias to negativity.

Our built in bias

I’m sure you’ve noticed how negative comments and events seem to wield more influence than positive ones. For example, a positive comment from your coworker is appreciated, but usually fades quickly. On the other hand, a negative comment sticks in your head much longer. Why is that? It’s because we’re wired to react more strongly to negative stimuli. Studies show that our brains have a measurable bias to negativity. The big question then is how do we fight against that bias?

Recognize the bias

The first step is to realize that there is such a thing. Recognizing our built-in bias allows us to take each piece of negativity with a grain of salt. It can be incredibly helpful to acknowledge that we may be overreacting to a negative situation or comment. On the flip side, this also allows us to savor the positivity. When negativity brings us down, we can make it a point to remember the positive words and events that lift us up.

Interrupt the negativity

When you find yourself ruminating about your perceived failures, then you’ve already sabotaged yourself. Instead, keep track of the negative things you say to yourself. Once you have a good idea of just what a big bully you are, interrupt those negative thoughts. Think about what you’ve already accomplished and all you can do rather than dwell on the negativity bouncing around in your head.

Keep a go-to file with some of your best memories, positive emails, and comments (if necessary, save a photo or write it down while the event is fresh in your mind). Browse whenever you need to counteract something negative. Sometimes we become so consumed by the daily grind that we forget what we have to be thankful for, and gratitude can help us stop the negativity and focus on what truly matters.

Take time to reflect

Of course this is all easier said than done. Since we’re hard wired with a negative bias, it takes time and a conscious effort to build more positive habits and be mindful of all the good and happy things in our lives.

Start each morning by redirecting those negative thoughts with a positive affirmation. Additionally, reflecting daily on both the good and the bad can be useful. Set aside time for quiet contemplation or to journal. Examine your negative thought from a different perspective and, if possible, reframe it in a positive light. (This month’s planner page can help).

Should you ignore every comment or suggestion you don’t like? Of course not. Constructive criticism helps us to grow and do better. What we need to guard against are the instances where negativity makes us want to go hide in a cave or keeps us stuck. Instead, we can use positivity as a tool to help us through the tough times. Focusing on the positive can help us grow stronger, develop a thicker skin, and be more resilient to adversity.

Surround yourself positive people

Toxic people can make you doubt yourself, so do your best to surround yourself with people who believe in you. Talking things out with a friend, particularly when you’re struggling, is another great way to counteract that negative bias. And if you need to, ask for professional help. Above all, do everything in your power to outweigh the negative with positive action.

Create positive results

You can overcome the negativity bias. Make the effort to catch and reframe those negative thoughts. Give yourself credit for all your hard work and what you’ve accomplished so far. Surround yourself with positive people and acknowledge all the good in your life. Lastly, I’ve created a pretty printable to remind you that a positive mindset will create those positive results. You got this!

Download your free Positive Results printable by clicking the button below

Be Sure to Sign Up~

Before you go, click here to sign up!  This fun series has lots of exclusive subscriber freebies. Along with post updates and direct links to my newest free printables, subscribers get limited and exclusive access to my ’12 Months of Abundance’ planner pages, as well as an exclusive digital desktop wallpaper each month. Digital wallpapers are only available during the current month, and planner pages are free only for a limited time and only for subscribers, so don’t wait!

Sources:

successconsciousness.com
byrdie.com
confidentcounselors.com
sbu.edu