How to Let Go of Negative Thoughts: 4 Steps

When we get caught in negative and limiting thoughts, we often feel immobilized and stuck. We also know that these thinking habits keep us from stepping into our true potential. So if you catch yourself in a negative thinking rut, here are four steps you can take to break through the barriers and expand your possibilities.

Take a step back

Taking a step back means letting go of your negative thought and then re-examining the situation with mindfulness. You can take a step back from your thoughts at any time once you realize that they are happening.

Letting go of these negative thoughts makes us more open to new ideas and allows us to see things from a mindfulness perspective.

Acknowledge your thoughts

Acknowledge your thoughts and give them a label for a better life balance. Notice if you feel any emotion or sensation in your body as you think these thoughts. You can even acknowledge the urge to get rid of the thought.

Describe the thought as simply and objectively as you can. If it feels like a judgment, describe it exactly as that — "judgmental thought," "critical thought," or "stinkin' thinkin'." If you find yourself having an ongoing conversation with yourself, describe it as "inner dialogue."

Feel your thoughts

This step is about feeling your emotions. It's as simple as that — and it's also where many of us get stuck. When we have a thought or emotion arise, our instinct is often to push it away or label it as "bad." But if we don't allow ourselves to feel our thoughts and emotions, then they never truly leave the body, and we will have a poor life balance.

They just stay there, influencing all of our actions and behaviors without us even realizing it! Don't judge them — just be with them, acknowledge them, feel into them.

Thank your thoughts and make room for better thoughts

Identify your thoughts, and then thank them for how they were once helpful to you and to your personal growth. Then make room for new, more positive thoughts that will serve you better now. This can be done either orally or in writing.

We all have negative thoughts; it's a part of being human. These thoughts can make us feel like we aren't good enough or we aren't on the right path in life hence poor personal growth. But the truth is, these thoughts aren't based on reality; they are simply a projection of our fears and doubts.

We offer personal transformations for individuals looking for more peace in their lives.

Join our Breakthrough Barriers Community!!!

This group is for anyone who wishes to gain a significant level of self-mastery.

Expand Your Possibilities in Relationships, Health, Career, and Find Your True Purpose in Life.