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How do negative thoughts find their way within our ecosystem so easily? Well, studies have shown that over 80% of people experience negative thoughts about themselves on a regular basis. 

Negative thoughts and self-doubt can have a significant impact on our mental and physical health. They can lead to anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and even physical health problems such as headaches and stomachaches. 

Many things contribute to this—such as upbringing, our experiences, and our social environment. However, it’s important to remember that we do harness the power to change our thoughts and beliefs. Negative thoughts aren’t simply banished by positive thoughts, that’s not how this works and if someone’s out there throwing “just be positive” in your face—you can tell them to just be quiet. 

There are a number of things that you can do to overcome negative thoughts and self-doubt. Here are a few tips:

1. Identify your negative thoughts. The first step to overcoming negative thoughts is to identify them. What are the thoughts that you typically have about yourself and your abilities? Are they realistic? Are they helpful?
2. Challenge your negative thoughts. Once you have identified your negative thoughts, you can start to challenge them. Ask yourself if there is any evidence to support your negative thoughts. Are you catastrophizing or jumping to conclusions?
3. Replace your negative thoughts with more positive ones. Once you have challenged your negative thoughts, you can start to replace them with more positive and realistic thoughts. What are some more helpful and empowering thoughts that you could have instead? What if you believed the opposite was true?
4. Practice self-compassion. Self-compassion is essential for overcoming negative thoughts and self-doubt. When we are compassionate towards ourselves, we are more accepting of our mistakes and imperfections. We are also more likely to persevere when we face challenges.
5. Focus on your strengths. When we focus on our strengths, it helps to boost our confidence and self-esteem. Make a list of your strengths and talents. What are you good at? What do you enjoy doing?
6. Surround yourself with positive people. The people we spend time with can have a big impact on our thoughts and feelings. Surround yourself with positive people who support you and believe in you.
7. Seek professional help if needed. If you are struggling to overcome negative thoughts and self-doubt on your own, consider seeking professional help. A therapist can help you to identify the root of your negative thoughts and develop strategies for overcoming them.

• Mindfulness: Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to the present moment without judgment. Mindfulness can help you to become more aware of your thoughts and feelings, and to develop a more accepting and compassionate attitude towards yourself.
• Gratitude: Gratitude is the practice of appreciating the good things in your life. When you practice gratitude, it helps to shift your focus from the negative to the positive.
• Positive self-talk: Positive self-talk is the practice of talking to yourself in a supportive and encouraging way. When you engage in positive self-talk, it helps to boost your confidence and self-esteem.
• Inner child work: Inner child work is a type of therapy that helps you to heal from past wounds and traumas. It can also help you to develop a stronger sense of self-worth and self-love.

Since we’re all about providing value, let’s get specific:

• Meditate for a few minutes each day. There are many different types of meditation, so find one that works for you and stick with it.
• Practice mindful breathing. When you feel stressed or anxious, take a few minutes to focus on your breath. Notice the rise and fall of your chest and stomach.
• Pay attention to your surroundings. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty of nature or the simple things around you.
• Eat mindfully. When you are eating, pay attention to the taste, texture, and smell of your food. Avoid distractions such as TV or your phone.

• Keep a gratitude journal. Write down three things that you are grateful for each day. This can be anything from a warm cup of coffee to a supportive friend.
• Take a gratitude break. Throughout the day, take a few moments to pause and reflect on the good things in your life.
• Express your gratitude to others. Tell the people you love how much you appreciate them.
• Practice mindful gratitude. When you are experiencing something positive, take a moment to savor the feeling of gratitude.

• Identify your negative self-talk. Pay attention to the things you say to yourself throughout the day. What are the negative thoughts that you keep repeating?
• Challenge your negative self-talk. Ask yourself if there is any evidence to support your negative thoughts. Are you catastrophizing or jumping to conclusions?
• Replace your negative self-talk with positive statements. Instead of saying “I’m not good enough,” say “I am capable and worthy.”
• Be patient and consistent. It takes time to change our habits of thought. Don’t get discouraged if you slip up from time to time.

• Find a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed.
• Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths.
• Imagine yourself as a child. What are you wearing? Where are you? What are you doing?
• Ask your inner child what they need from you. What will make them feel loved and supported?
• Give your inner child what they need. This may involve offering them words of affirmation, hugs, or simply spending time with them.

It is important to remember that inner child work is a process. It takes time and patience to heal from past wounds and traumas. However, it is a journey that is well worth taking. When we heal our inner child, we become more whole and complete individuals.

Overcoming negative thoughts and self-doubt is a journey, not a destination. It takes time and effort to change our habits of thought and develop a more positive and compassionate mindset. However, it is possible, and it is worth it.

When we overcome negative thoughts and self-doubt, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities. We are more likely to take risks, pursue our dreams, and live our lives to the fullest. We are also more likely to experience happiness, fulfilment, and well-being.

If you are struggling to overcome negative thoughts and self-doubt on your own, please know that you are not alone. There are many resources available to help you, including professional therapy. With the right support, you can overcome your negative thoughts and self-doubt and create a more positive and fulfilling life for yourself.

• Be patient with yourself. It takes time to change our habits of thought and develop a more positive mindset.
• Be consistent with your practices. The more you practice mindfulness, gratitude, positive self-talk, and inner child work, the more effective they will be.
• Be kind and compassionate towards yourself. Everyone has negative thoughts from time to time. It is important to accept yourself and your thoughts without judgment.
• Celebrate your successes. When you notice yourself having a positive thought or taking a positive action, celebrate it! This will help to reinforce your new patterns of thought and behaviour.

Remember, you are worthy of love and respect. You are capable of great things. Believe in yourself and never give up on your dreams.

Need help with this? Our experts are here to help. Book a FREE Discovery Call with any of our consultants to learn more. You can definitely get there yourself, but with the right support, you can get there quicker.