It’s easy not to notice, but all day long you are asking yourself questions. And the types of questions you ask dictate how you feel and what actions you will take.
Ultimately, when you find yourself facing a challenge and trying to overcome it, the most important thing you can do is ask yourself questions that open your mind to wisdom, strength, and your most powerful state of mind. Most people do just the opposite when faced with disappointment or frustration. Whether consciously or subconsciously, they ask questions that lead to a negative downward spiral:
Counterproductive questions:
- Why does this kind of stuff always happen to me?
- Why can’t I get a break?
- What the heck is wrong with me?
Consider the frustration or challenge in front of you right now and ask productive questions:
- What opportunity does this person/situation give me to grow?
- Looking back to the beginning of this challenge, what might I do differently next time to prevent this outcome?
- Which part of this is beyond my control that I need to let go of trying to change?
- How do I want to show up in this situation?
What you ask yourself produces your thoughts. Your thoughts produce your reactions (how you feel, what you say, and what you do). Be intentional.
