19
“Yeah Buts”
• Cut off those thoughts as soon as they start
• Focus on the possibilities
• List some of the negative self-talk in which you    routinely engage
• Think of how you could change it to have a positive effect on your thinking and on the results
Are you plagued by negative thoughts? The "yeah, buts?" It is critical that you cut those thoughts off as soon as they start. You may have heard the expression "thoughts are things." Whatever you think about constantly, you will achieve. If you're continually focusing on how difficult your goal is, you will never achieve it.
You can overcome negative thoughts by focusing on the possibilities. To illustrate the power of our words, think of a challenging goal and then say to yourself, How on earth did I think I could ever accomplish my goal? It's too big, too difficult. It's impossible! What was I thinking?
Sound familiar?  Maybe you never have those types of inner conversations, but I've had to fight that internal dialog on more than one occasion! When those thoughts come to mind, immediately replace them with the following type of mental conversation:  I know my goal is achievable because others have accomplished it before me. I am absolutely committed to making it happen and am willing to do whatever is necessary to achieve my true heart's desire.
Do you feel the difference in the two? If you dwell very long on the first conversation, you'll be in trouble. The second conversation, however, immediately renews your commitment and transports you to a new world of possibility. While in that positive state of mind, you are open to asking better questions. What can I do to achieve my goal? Who might be willing to help? How can I approach this differently and achieve my desired result?
List some of the negative self-talk in which you routinely engage. Think of how you could modify that dialog to have a positive effect on your thinking and on the results. For example, instead of asking yourself, Why me? or Why can't I? Ask yourself, What can I do to make things better, to turn my life around, to improve the situation, to achieve what I long for? These questions instantly change your focus and empower you.