During difficult times, it is easy for our thoughts to slip into the pit of despair. Year 2020 has been challenging for us all. Irrespective of our backgrounds, socioeconomic status and family status. This year has hit us hard from the physical angle, to the emotional, to our relationships and beyond.
In his book, Thinking Fast and Slow, Daniel Kahneman describes two systems in which our brains think:
System 1: Fast, emotional and intuitive
System 2: Slow, deliberate and logical
Both systems are useful depending on our circumstances. It is important to recognize our thought triggers, control our actions and self-correct when needed.
You do have control of your thinking process even during times of uncertainty. You can choose Kahneman’s “System 1” way of thinking, which might give you results in the short-term. Or, you can opt for “System 2” and think of these challenges as opportunities. Maybe unexpected gifts from the universe, if you will, to help your brain slow down.
Slowing down gives us time to refocus our goals, hold-off our judgements and see our blind spots. This deliberate process will help us better interpret the situations we are in.
Think of the things you always wanted to do but did not have time. What do you have time to do right now? How can you pivot from your status quo? What new skills can you learn? How can you treat your soul or mind? Who needs your help?
While we cannot change the past, we can shift our thought process to better deal with the card(s) the universe has given us. We need to move forward. But we cannot move forward when our heads are turned backwards. Let’s not waste time thinking about what could/should/would have happened!
Moving forward needs deliberate, methodical and positive thinking. I promise you there are new opportunities out there; you just need to slow down to see and seize them. Lori Greiner once said: “Dear optimist, pessimist, and realist -- while you guys were busy arguing about the glass of wine, I drank it! Sincerely, the opportunist!”
What if you can change your story, right here, right now?