Tip #4 To Feel Happy Today - Track Your Thoughts

Shine a Light on Your Thoughts: How Tracking Them Can Boost Your Self-Esteem

We talked last time about building self-esteem by recognizing your strengths. But what about those pesky negative thoughts that hold you back?  Here's where thought tracking comes in – a powerful tool to identify and challenge the negativity that chips away at your confidence.

Why Track Your Thoughts?

Our brains are like computers programmed by years of experience. Often, negative thoughts become so ingrained we don't even realize they're there.  Tracking helps you to be unconsciously conscious.

Shining the Light on Anxiety

Let's use anxiety as an example.  Next time you feel a wave of anxiousness wash over you, pause and ask yourself:

• What was I thinking right before this feeling started?
• Was it a negative thought or belief about myself?
• Did I compare myself to someone else, or judge my own abilities?
• Did my mood shift from good to bad? Can I trace it back to a specific thought?

These questions help you identify the trigger: the negative thought sparking the anxiety.

From Negative to Positive

Remember, thoughts aren't facts!  Just because a thought pops into your head doesn't mean it's true. Once you identify the negative thought, you can challenge it. 

• Is there evidence to support this thought?
• Would I talk to a friend this way?
• What's a more realistic and empowering way to look at this situation?

Practice Makes Progress

Thought tracking takes practice. Don't get discouraged if you miss some negative thoughts at first.  Over time, with consistent effort, you'll become more aware of your inner voice. This awareness allows you to rewire your thinking patterns from negative to positive.

Bonus Tip:  Keep a notebook or use a phone app to jot down your negative thoughts and their challenges. This can be a powerful visual reminder of your progress.

By tracking your thoughts, you unlock the power to transform negativity into self-compassion and build unshakeable confidence. Now go forth, shine a light on your thoughts, and watch your self-esteem soar!