When I was younger, I was often told I should be weary of “seeing the world with rose-colored glasses.” I’ll admit, I’ve been an optimist all my life. I like to assume things will go fine, and most people have each other’s best interests in mind.
At some point in my adulthood, I have learned my lesson the hard way that sometimes a little dose of realism goes a long way toward preventing bad outcomes. However, my optimism has continued to linger, and it actually helps me keep my mind focused on the solutions needed. Optimism is my chosen mindset!
We all have mindsets. None of us are born with any one in particular. We build our mindsets over time based on the home we were raised in, the people we hang out with, the media we consume, and more. That’s right – we build our own mindsets.
This should give us each great hope, because it means negative mindsets can be rebuilt. Falling into negative mindset patterns can increase symptoms of depression and anxiety. An unchecked mindset can more easily lend itself to substance use and other poor coping skills. Thankfully, we can rebuild!
Celebrity life coach, Jay Shetty, once said, “If you can build a muscle, you can build a mindset.” Building muscle takes repetition, practice, and determination. The same is required for building a healthier mindset.
We must practice gently self-confronting our unhealthy thought patterns. We must be intentional in choosing healthier ones. Building better mindsets also includes serious reflection on how the people, places, and things around us directly influence us.
Do you find yourself drifting toward cynicism and anger? Take a look at the 5 videos or posts you most recently engaged with on your mobile device, or perhaps the 5 people you most recently chatted with. You might notice some interesting connections!
What’s your mindset for 2025? If you or someone you know needs help building a healthier mindset, you don’t have to do it alone. The Willow Center team is here for you and ready to help! Give us a call today.
Written by Chase Cotten, Community Director
