It is said that we receive what we focus on. This can come about by positive and negative thoughts. The first step in countering negative thoughts is to be aware of what you are thinking and your beliefs. This is not always easy as the belief through your thoughts may be so ingrained that you have trouble countering it.
One of the techniques to counter negative thoughts is to stretch a plain old rubber band on your wrist. As soon as that enveloping negative thought starts, pull back the rubber band and snap it. Your brain is diverted into focusing on the short sharp pain in your wrist, so it has to divert from that negative thought. You’re consciously aware that the reason you have pain on your wrist was because of that negative thought, which forces you to think more positive. If you do this constantly, your brain will begin to change your thought process about your bad thoughts. It’s a technique that has worked really well for many people.
The answer to a complex problem is sometimes so simple.
Place a rubber band around your wrist making sure it is large enough so as not to be uncomfortable and not restrict your circulation. Your hand dropping off through circulation problems would not be an appropriate reminder to drop the negative habit. The rubber band is going to act as a breaker for the negative thought.
The rubber band technique can also be used for negative talk, behaviour and actions, which is the same but just an outwardly manifestation of a negative thought.
So, how does the Rubber Band Technique work for these? You’ve decided to change, but find yourself slipping back, again and again, because it is so automatic. It is over before you give it much thought. So divert yourself into snapping the band. The secret is to catch yourself as it starts and immediately choose something positive.
Actions
Your easy steps to change a negative behavior.
1. Slip on a rubber band that fits loosely around your wrist.
2. Decide on your thoughts, words, behavior or action that you want to change.
3. Decide what positive thoughts, words, behavior or action you are going to replace them with.
4. Each time you find yourself engaging in the negative thought, words, behaviour or action you want to change, simply stretch out the rubber band and let it snap back on your wrist to remind yourself that you have chosen a new way.
Just one rubber band can change your life!