The Freedom to Choose Your Thoughts = More Freedom from Stress

In the spirit of the July 4th Independence Day Holiday here in the United States, I wanted to talk about freedom this week; with a little twist. I want to talk about our own individual freedom that is influenced by our thoughts and beliefs.

If we focus on all that’s wrong in the world (and there’s plenty of it), then we can easily convince ourselves that the world is a terrible place. If we believe that the world is a terrible place, we will be on the lookout for proof; and we will find it. As the cycle continues, it weaves together a harsh reality that is solely based on our thoughts.

This “reality” is also our own self-made prison. It limits our joy, our relationships, and our love of life.

“Make not your thoughts your prisons.” – William Shakespeare

But it doesn’t have to be this way. We have the freedom to change our thoughts. We can purposely also notice the good in the world. And as we practice, we notice even more. Now we create an entirely different reality! Now we enjoy more of what life has to offer with greater freedom from stress and worry.

A new friend of mine passed away from cancer this week. She was my age. I didn’t know her well, but she left a lasting impression with her parting advice. She said as parents we feel it’s our job to worry about our kids, and if we don’t, we’re somehow failing. She said this is a lie! IT IS NOT our job to worry.  She said our role is to help, laugh, grow, enjoy, and spend time with our kids & others.  We should make them feel heard, loved, seen. We are not built to take on so much worry – it takes our whole body down!

If your thoughts are keeping you locked in a prison of worry, I encourage you to do whatever you can to break free. Check out my list of books and resources here. Find a therapist, counselor, coach, or friend you can honestly share with. Take time to explore what life means to you. Get back to nature.

Let freedom ring!