I was inspired today by a conversation over at Andy Wibbels blog. The conversation was about the movie The Secret and the power of positive thinking. So thanks to all those who commented on Andy's post for the inspiration! I felt the need to clarify what I think is a crucial point.
I want to acknowledge that using the power of positive thinking does not negate that hard work is necessary to reach our goals. I don't think any proponent of positive thinking believes that if you sit on your couch and think positive thoughts that you will suddenly become a millionaire, lose 20 pounds, heal from a disease, land the perfect job, find the perfect relationship, etc.
All of those things require effort. But let me ask you this... how many people do you know who are willing to put effort into something that they don't believe will work? If a person continually had thoughts such as "I'll always be broke no matter what I do," do you think they would give the 110% effort needed to succeed? If a person thinks "I'll never lose this weight" do you think they will find the motivation to eat well and exercise? That negative pessimistic thinking can lead to a feeling of helplessness which undermines a person's willingness to try.
On the flip side, let's imagine someone who thinks "I can do anything I set my mind to" or "I succeed in all I do." These thoughts will help a person take the necessary steps and risks to start a new business or an exercise plan. These types of thoughts motivate us to take action and put in the effort to accomplish our goals. If we think and believe that we are capable of achieving our goals, then we are more willing to put in the effort necessary to accomplish the tasks required to meet our goals.
I also want to mention that keeping a positive attitude and maintaining positive thoughts takes considerable effort also.
Bottom line...We must put in the work to achieve the results. And, positive thinking is an important part of the process of achieving goals.
I was inspired today by a conversation over at Andy Wibbels blog. The conversation was about the movie The Secret and the power of positive thinking. So thanks to all those who commented on Andy's post for the inspiration! I felt the need to clarify what I think is a crucial point.
I want to acknowledge that using the power of positive thinking does not negate that hard work is necessary to reach our goals. I don't think any proponent of positive thinking believes that if you sit on your couch and think positive thoughts that you will suddenly become a millionaire, lose 20 pounds, heal from a disease, land the perfect job, find the perfect relationship, etc.
All of those things require effort. But let me ask you this... how many people do you know who are willing to put effort into something that they don't believe will work? If a person continually had thoughts such as "I'll always be broke no matter what I do," do you think they would give the 110% effort needed to succeed? If a person thinks "I'll never lose this weight" do you think they will find the motivation to eat well and exercise? That negative pessimistic thinking can lead to a feeling of helplessness which undermines a person's willingness to try.
On the flip side, let's imagine someone who thinks "I can do anything I set my mind to" or "I succeed in all I do." These thoughts will help a person take the necessary steps and risks to start a new business or an exercise plan. These types of thoughts motivate us to take action and put in the effort to accomplish our goals. If we think and believe that we are capable of achieving our goals, then we are more willing to put in the effort necessary to accomplish the tasks required to meet our goals.
I also want to mention that keeping a positive attitude and maintaining positive thoughts takes considerable effort also.
Bottom line...We must put in the work to achieve the results. And, positive thinking is an important part of the process of achieving goals.