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Once you've got your statements, then what? How do you remember to repeat them in a consistent way?
Choose your triggers. Select a certain habit or activity that you engage in every single day. It can be something as simple as brushing your teeth. Any activity that gives you about 30 seconds of time to focus will work. It helps to choose an activity that is somehow related to your intention statement.
For example, let's say that you want to feel less rushed. Think of a trigger related to time. Hitting
snooze button? Looking at your watch? Waiting for your bus or train? Don't choose ALL of these-you won't remember them all. Instead, choose one single action to be your trigger for repeating that statement. Think "time" whenever you engage in that activity, and repeat your statement: "I have plenty of time to accomplish everything I need to do." Or, you could use that trigger to think "relaxed" and repeat "I am relaxed and unhurried."
Use
language that works best for you, but make sure it is present tense and positive--say "I am relaxed" instead of "I'm not stressed." Neuroscientific studies indicate that if we say
word "stressed" our brains will zero in on that and skip
"not" part!
Once you've selected it, start creating
habit of repeating your statement to yourself whenever you engage in that behavior.
Want to work on your attitude about money? Every time you open your checkbook or use your credit card, remember "plenty" and repeat your intention statement about it. "I attract plenty of money for all of my needs." Maybe you want to spend less money. In that case, think "save" and say "I save money wisely" or "I am thrifty and frugal."
Looking to improve your approach to your wellness? Repeat your intention statement each time you take
first bite of a meal or lace up your exercising shoes. Think "healthy" and repeat "I am fit, healthy and active."
Longing to find a loving relationship? Each time you see an affectionate couple or someone you find attractive, remember "love" and state your intention: "I am loved deeply and treated lovingly."
It's easy to get caught up in
negative thought cycles we've all developed during our lives. Our brains already know
"I'm never going to get ahead financially" story and
"No matter what I do, I can't lose this weight" story. Our minds are getting way too many repeats of
"Other people fulfill their dreams, but not me" fairy tale.
Ack. Turn
page. New story!
Dish up some positive intention statements, and make sure they become a regular part of your routine by attaching them to
triggers you feel will work best for you. Make it easy for your brain to remember to remember.
And okay, use Post-its if that helps.
