How your thoughts change your reality

Did you know that the average person has around 60,000 thoughts per day? That's a lot of mental chatter... and the majority of these thoughts are repeats from yesterday. Your brain loves to loop and repeat what it already knows. This repetitive cycle of thinking isn't just random; it's shaped by deeply ingrained beliefs (created by past experiences and memories) that influence every decision you make. It's like running on autopilot with an old, outdated map. The thing is, history is full of people who shattered perceived limits and beliefs. Take Roger Bannister, for example. Before 1954, it was widely believed that running a mile in under four minutes was physically impossible. But he didn't buy into that belief, and he broke the barrier, inspiring a wave of athletes who followed in his footsteps. That's the power of beliefs. They can either limit us or propel us forward. As we embark on a journey of personal growth and self-discovery with NLP we learn how to question the very nature of our thoughts and identity. 

Our beliefs also physically reshape our neurology, which directly impacts our physiology.  This has a profound impact on our health, performance and relationships. For example, there is such a thing as the 'nocebo' effect where people experience negative outcomes in their health based on their expectations or belies.  For example, studies on cholesterol medication have revealed that patients who read about possible side effects are significantly more likely to experience them. Our brains also naturally sort for evidence that confirms existing beliefs.  This happens unconsciously so we need to train our brains to notice a different narrative. 

Behaviour change challenge

Here is a practical challenge you can set yourself for this week:

Step 1: Identify one limiting belief you have about yourself eg I am not a confident person

Step 2: Notice when you collect 'evidence' that reinforces this belief

Step 3: Intentionally seek out counter-evidence which you may have unconsciously 'deleted' previously

Step 4: Document this evidence in writing

Step 5: Review after one week.  How do you now think and feel about that 'old' belief you used to have? 

If you'd like to know more our free online 'Introduction to NLP' has a session on belief change to help you keep practicing.  Here is a link to access it today.

https://www.teamnlp.co.uk/free-nlp-course

Wishing you every success.

Lindsey and the team at Team NLP