#4 - 'Mindset' and Mental Health

In this episode I wanted to share my thoughts on how (in my opinion), the 'mindset' and personal development 'motivational' world can sometimes negatively impact our mental state. It did for me anyway.

Now, please note, this isn't me saying that there isn't a place for motivational videos and speakers etc. Of course there is, and if it works for you, and helps you on your journey, that's great. However, I do feel that for some of us, we need to go a level deeper.

When I think about my story over the years, I was listening to messages like this every day:

"Get rid of your negative thoughts!"

"Don't allow yourself to think of anything but positive thoughts!"

"What you think about, you will manifest into your life."

"Don't settle for anything less than perfection!"

Great...

Now, a lot of that IS true and on a surface level, 'motivating' ... and I'm all for working hard and working on becoming a better version of yourself, BUT, when you are dealing with a mental health condition (especially severe anxiety), it's not that helpful. In fact, it might actually make you worse. There were many times I became more fearful of my own thoughts because of what I was dealing with at the time...and I know I can't be alone in this.

It's not that this stuff is inherently 'bad', it's just that sometimes, more awareness and a deeper level of understanding is needed. That's all.

When I discovered therapy and meditation (amongst many other things) and began to understand more about my own mind and how it functioned, I was then much more able to deal with my thoughts and feelings in a healthier way.

I had to understand more and become more aware of my own thought patterns and once I was able to see them in a different light, I was able to create much more space and experience much less tension in my own mind.

For me, it was about slowing down, taking a step back and not always fighting with myself and my thoughts but instead going inward, exploring more and becoming more curious to my mind and my thoughts. THAT was very liberating.

I certainly don't have all the answers and i'm still figuring it out myself but I just wanted to share my thoughts and insights with you all on this episode.

I hope you enjoy it.

Much love.