Change & Positive Thinking: Advice from a leadership consultant
- Dr. William B. Valmyr
- Jul 21, 2017
- 3 min read
“The quality of your life is determined by the quality of your thoughts.” Anonymous
Everyone who is leading in any capacity faces the challenge of changing minds, starting with one’s own mind. The course of our lives are often directed by a thought or a change of mind. Whether good, bad or ugly; productive or destructive, our thoughts play a major role in the trajectory of our lives.
I do not know what you are currently dealing with today. Perhaps you are in debt or facing bankruptcy, involved in an abusive relationship, addicted to pornography or illegal substances, divorced, depressed because you are single or you feel like you are failing at everything that you touch. Wherever you find yourself in the journey call life, there is hope. God has a plan and a future for your life. And it all begins with a changed mind.
What happens when we change our minds?
Over the course of my life, I have had to change my mind a zillion times. If you are like me, you have most likely experienced the power of a changed mind. You most likely made progress or hindered your personal success by simply having a change of mind. The effects of a changed mind is not difficult to describe as having the wrong mindset in itself is disgraceful and shameful. The opposite is true, the effects of a changed mind can also be experienced with positive thinking.
It is a common assumption in human behavior that all change is accommodated change through the human mind. But the question arises, is this accommodation because of the human will or does it happen by accident? A change of mind is the process of shifting direction by way of personal reflection. This progression of change is a series of actions that include an unbiased assessment of the current state of affairs (the good, the bad, and the ugly), honest reflections on the possibilities, repentance and/or forgiveness of self or others (when necessary), accepting responsibility of the role played in the situation, seeking counsel and the pursuit of the proper course of actions.
The Gift of a Changed Mind
Ownership and responsibility are the twin towers of a changed mind. Isn’t life supposed to be about change? Sure. You are hardwired that way. You have brain chemicals and a cognitive awareness that boon when it comes to changing your mind. You see, your desires to lead, grow and succeed are rooted within the corpus of a changed mind. Our successes after failure are the results of a changed mind. Your ability to forgive an offense are made possible beginning with a changed mind.
Change Begins with the Mind
The late Zig Ziglar once said that, “Change starts with you, but it doesn’t start until you do.” Friends, you cannot be an overcomer without confronting the mindset or problem that you are currently facing. To begin the process of change, you need to take a holistic approach. First, you must assess every aspect of the situation. Second, you need to be brutally honest with yourself. Third, forgive yourself for the hurt that you may have caused and forgive those that have injured you in any way. Fourth, confess positive thoughts and words over your life. Lastly, share your story of change and recovery with others. This will help you focus on the progress that you have made by changing your mind rather than dwelling on what has yet to change. In sharing your story, you may also help someone who is experiencing the same struggle, challenge and problem. However, God’s grace operates more effectively when you flow in the Spirit of forgiveness.
Welcome Positive Changes
A changed mind can open so many doors of opportunity for you. Whatever you are going through to do not deal with it by yourself. Seek help from a mature friend, a professional counselor, a minister/rabbi/spiritual leader or a family member that can assist you. Change is attainable and is not impossible. But you must change your mind about your situation. A changed mind is necessary for you to experience growth. Do not be afraid to change. I care about your well-being. You are loved!

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