The human brain has evolved over millennia to prioritise negative thoughts and experiences at a rate approximately nine times greater than positive ones. This inherent bias towards negativity is deeply rooted in our evolutionary history, serving as a crucial mechanism for survival. In the face of potential threats or dangers, our ancestors needed to be on constant alert, ready to engage in fight or flight responses to ensure their survival.
In the present day, our evolved brain continues to exhibit a predisposition towards focusing a significant portion of our mental energy on negative behaviors. As a result, when we wake up each day, we often find ourselves already immersed in an alert and negative mindset. To restore a sense of balance and address this natural asymmetry, it becomes essential to consciously shift our focus towards positive thoughts.
Given that our brains tend to remember experiences more vividly when emotions are attached to them, it becomes challenging to recall positive achievements, especially when they are infrequent or minor in stature. Unlike larger achievements, which may occur sporadically and are not part of our daily routine, smaller successes are woven into our everyday activities. These routine accomplishments, often overlooked when we are on autopilot, play a crucial role in maintaining a positive mindset.
Therefore, the key lies in tuning into and deliberately focusing on these daily, smaller achievements. By doing so, we can reshape our cognitive tendencies, gradually breaking away from the default negativity bias ingrained in our evolved brains. This intentional shift towards acknowledging and celebrating the positive aspects of our daily lives is a powerful strategy to cultivate a more balanced and resilient mindset.
Now is the time to reflect on your daily wins. What have you achieved today?
I didn’t burn a hole in my shirt when I ironed it!
I dropped the children at school on time.
I managed to complete 30 minutes of exercise.
I read 10 pages of a book.
I made dinner for the family, and it tasted great!
I didn’t step in that large puddle in the street like I normally do. (some days do feel like Groundhog Day, don’t they!)
I was patient and gave way to an incompetent driver!
I completed my work assignment.
I paid my bill.
I returned that important phone call I missed from my friend.
Impressive!
Upon further consideration, it seems like you ultimately had a fantastic day after all!
Moving forward, replicate this process tomorrow and in the upcoming weeks. Be attentive to and acknowledge your 'small victories' and celebrate having a mindset that embraces equilibrium and resilience.
Go Go Go.
