While winter may not be the season to run full force into the world’s most inspiring workout schedule, I do believe it’s always the right season for change and growth. We are all capable of the change and growth we want — and it starts in our mind.
If we don’t control our thoughts and feelings (rather than them controlling us) or take responsibility for our thoughts and feelings we cannot change or create a different tomorrow for ourselves. Change cannot happen unless we become the master of our minds. Our brains will stay unhealthy and stuck in the worn paths of our old thoughts until we create different thoughts by the renewing of our minds. Romans 12:2 says, “…but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” God tells us we can transform our lives through renewing our minds. It’s great news to understand and know that our thoughts have the ability to transform our lives.
Science now knows the brain has the ability to heal and transform itself. While this is fairly new to science, it is not new to God or creation. It’s called neuroplasticity. The “wiring” of neurons in the brain through mindful practices of thinking. Dr. Caroline Leaf is a leading expert in this field. I highly recommend reading her books and listening to her interviews and lectures on YouTube and other media outlets. I promise you it can change your life. No willpower needed, just the desire to change.
Why no willpower? Imagine a habit you’re trying to remove. Maybe you want to stop using alcohol to relax at night. However, you have created years and years of trodden down paths or neural pathways through your thoughts-- habitual unhealthy or negative uncontrolled or mindless thinking. When it’s 7p and you want to relax you pour a favorite drink. It’s nearly autopilot. To create another habit or routine, you’ll first need to beat back some brush, tread down the long grasses, and eventually that neutral pathway will be as clear as the first. Maybe you choose to make a beautiful cup of tea (add booster of course ;) instead. Eventually that will become second nature. And just like it used to be pop some wine without thinking, you’ll be boiling water and finding your favorite mug instead.
I have to share, on a personal level, my deep belief in change comes from my dynamic relationship with Christ. I have tried over and over again to change my thought patterns and life, but I failed without this relationship. My purpose is clear when I listen to His guidance and encouragement through His Word and prayer.
All through the Bible God teaches us how powerful and important our thoughts and words are in our life and the life of others. “As he thinks in his heart, so is he” (Proverbs 23:7). “Keep your heart (mind) with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues (experiences and events) of life (Proverbs 4:23).
However, I realize not all share this relationship or belief in Christ. No matter! Creation, universe, nature itself, we all have our roots here and can accomplish the change we want in ourselves through the methods of change I use, and many others use, to create a fulfilling life that you want to live. Getting clear on what guides you will help you get firm on the changes you know align with your purpose.
Ready? Let’s change our minds.