10 Tips For Taking Control Of Your Life

Who is the boss of your goal setting, record tracking and time management?

It would seem at first glance, that Attention Deficit Disorder or ADD and positive thinking have nothing to do with the other. Many individuals with ADD develop patterns of negative thinking, since they become frustrated by their various challenges and feelings of being frequently overwhelmed. This type of negativity makes everything much harder to manage challenges and move forward.

People with ADD can focus on their strengths and accomplishments, when they practice positive thinking, which can increase motivation and happiness. This allows them to spend more time making progress, rather than feeling depressed and stuck. Here are some practical tips you can use in order to shift yourself into patterns of positive thinking.

– Take Proper Care of Yourself

When you are eating properly, exercising and getting enough rest, it is much easier to be positive.

– What Are You Grateful For?

Stress and challenges are not as bad, when you remember to consider those things you are grateful for, simply taking about 60 seconds daily to appreciate these good things makes a big difference in your life.

– Look for the Proof Rather than Making Assumptions

Many times fear of not being accepted leads us to assumptions about what someone else may be thinking, however our fears are generally unfounded in reality. When you fear that a bad mood of someone else is because of anything you may have done, or that you are being gossiped about, you should ask them, rather than wasting your time fretting over what you may have done, unless you have proof of some wrongdoing.

– Refrain from Using Absolutes

Telling someone something like, You never call me, or You are always late, this is thinking and speaking in absolutes. Absolutes such as, never and always will only make the situation worse, while it programs your mind into actually believing that specific individuals are incapable of delivering.

– Detach From Any Negative Thoughts

If you do not judge your thoughts, they cannot hold any power over you. When you recognize having negative thoughts, detach from them, acknowledge them, however, do not follow them.

– Squash the “ANTs”

Doctor Daniel Amen, talks about ANTs in his book, “Change Your Brain, Change Your Life”. ANTs are Automatic Negative Thoughts. Unyielding negative thoughts, such as, ‘People are laughing at me’ or ‘It must be bad, if the boss wants to seem me’. Upon noticing these negative thoughts, recognize them as ANTs and then squash them.

– Practice Loving, Touching and Squeezing On Your Friends and Family

It does not take an expert to realize the benefits of a great hug. One instant boost comes for positive physical contact with, family, friend and pets. A research study, shows that a waitress touching some of her customers on the arm while handing them there checks, received higher tips from these individuals than from those she did not touch.

– Increasing Social Activity

Increasing social activity, decreases loneliness, therefore you should surround yourself with happy, healthy people, since positive energy is contagious.

– Help Others or Volunteer for an Organization

Helping makes everyone feel great, volunteer your time, resources or money. The more positive energy you send out in to the world, the more will return to you.

– Resist Rumination With Pattern Interrupts

Rumination are negative thoughts on overdrive and they are never productive, since that are not solution oriented or rational, merely excess worry or doubts. When you find yourself in rumination, you can resist them by applying pattern interrupts and doing something different. For instance, change you physical environment, take a walk outside or sit under a tree, read a book, turn on some music or call a friend.

Protocol is the creed of the corporate world. Understanding the requirements are the basics of productivity, however interaction and keeping a calm mind makes up the entirety of true productivity. Although, they are uncommon, there are individuals who work well under pressure, however, we are all imperfect humans. Succumbing to stress and depression, never solves a problem. Clothing yourself in courage, while admitting you may be turning yourself into a workaholic may be easier than telling yourself you are not doing the best you can.

30 Comments

  • T.M. Harris

    Reply Reply December 31, 2008

    Hey Reed. Very informative post! I’m still an avid reader and follower of your blog, just wanted to let you know that.

    Have a happy and prosperous new year!

    T.M.

    T.M. Harriss last blog post..T.M. Harris (CEO/Owner) added the blog post ‘Review and Goodbye to 2008…Welcoming In 2009’

  • Kaj R. Nilsen

    Reply Reply December 31, 2008

    Interesting post, Reed.

    In my opinion, the most important thing is to realize the relationship between thoughts and emotions. Emotions are always the results of thoughts, and without thought there would be no negative emotions.

    You are the thinkher, the creator of your thoughts, and thus also the king of your own emotions. Emotions are just the “motions” of your thoughts, the bodily vibrations of your own thinking happening a split second after the thought.

    Thinking negatively, and then taking those accompanying negative emotions seriously, is like writing a nasty letter to yourself, and then afterwards getting offended by reading it!

    Most people do not realize the power of their own thinking, or even that they are thinking at all, when having negative emotions. The realization that you have all the power necessary over your own thoughts and emotions, can truly change your life in an instant.

    Kaj R. Nilsens last blog post..XanGo-møte i Skien!

  • BEN JACKSON (RESOLVE2)

    Reply Reply December 31, 2008

    Reed,

    This is accomplished in five(5)key areas. As Third John states ” Beloved above all my wish for you is that you be in health and prosper even as your soul prosper”. Our soul is made up of our mind – are we painting the success we want on the canvas of our minds, our will – are we setting our will for what we want because it is a matter of the will, our imagination – are we thinking as you state Ruminating thoughts or positive ones, our emotions – are we keeping those in check so not as to derail our success, and our intellect – are we reading books, listening to tapes, reading your articles, etc. In order to be the boss we have to first begin to prosper in our soul.

    Remember to always resolve2 accomplish your goals and dreams. Have a prosperous time in 2009.

    Ben(Resolve2)

  • Nickolove Lovemore

    Reply Reply December 31, 2008

    Hi Reed,

    A thought-provoking post. Your point about taking great care of yourself is such an important one because you cannot give of your best if you’re not in optimum health.

    Many business owners and entrepreneurs are guilty of compromising their health to get their business going. This approach will eventually backfire.

    So here’s to your excellent health and abundant wealth in 2009!

    Best wishes

    Nickolove

    Nickolove Lovemores last blog post..FREE Report Reveals How to Make a BIG Difference to Your Bottom Line in 2009

  • Timothy Millar

    Reply Reply December 31, 2008

    Hey Reed, Happy New Year, I hope yours is Happy!
    2009 is going to be a prosperous year even with all the negatives that have been placed at my feet. 2008 is a year I cannot wait to forget, lost 2 businesses (one just this week) losing my home in 4 days,Van blew up,cats ran away,kids didn’t(just kidding). But I have a positive attitude and I can do nothing but go up.I finally started getting Search Engine traffic to my blog and Hubs thanks to the great information you gave me on Keywords so I will make it regardless of what the World throws at me. Have a Wonderful Day, Timothy Millar

    Timothy Millars last blog post..JacobMails Updated, Paid to Read?

  • kristi qualley

    Reply Reply December 31, 2008

    Reed, Happy New Year to you and your family! Loved the good points in your blog. Here is to a prosperous 2009 for everyone! Cheers! Kristi http://www.easyhomebasedemployment.com

  • Anatoly Silkin

    Reply Reply December 31, 2008

    ? ????? ????? ? ?????????? ??? ? ???? ????? ? ?????????? ? ????? ????? ?????? ?????????? !!!

  • Dave

    Reply Reply December 31, 2008

    Thanks Reed for the 10 steps

    I think your point “Help Others or Volunteer for an Organization” Is a great one. “Helping makes everyone feel great”

    There are a lot of people in this world that need to feel better about themselves, including some us who are going somewhere. We all need encouragement and help.

    Dave

    Daves last blog post..Installing Ceramic Wall Tile in your Bathroom

  • Martha Tucker

    Reply Reply December 31, 2008

    That’s an excellent article because it shows cause and effect of what we allow ourselves to think. I know there are true observations in the 10 steps because, from time to time, I’ve used every one of them. For instance, during the holidays, I wanted to work, work, work to get my blog finished before January 5,2009. Well, the tech support I needed just decided not to work. I could have been upset and gotten sick, but I squished that idea and joined friends and family and enjoyed, am enjoying myself.
    I know I’m going to accomplish just as much because I allowed myself to renew. That article is a good reminder, Reed. Thanks.
    Marti Tucker
    http://www.newimagewriters.com
    marthatucker@newimagewriters.com

  • normz2

    Reply Reply December 31, 2008

    Good blog. I think one should think positive thoughts in order to help reprogram the subconscious. When you have positive thoughts positive things happen.

  • chuck hall

    Reply Reply December 31, 2008

    All good ideas, and may I include Meditation?
    Seems we simply do not take enough time for ourselves in silence.

    Happy New Year
    Chuck
    http://www.carvingtricks.com

  • Geoff Dodd

    Reply Reply December 31, 2008

    Reed, what an excellent article. I like the part about ‘detach from negative thoughts.’ Yesterday I went to our Buddhist temple and the monks there practice ‘watch the mind – and let it go’ – focusing on breath and letting go whatever arises. Nothing can detract from their mental balance. The article is spot on.. touching a customer’s arm, cuddling family, pet dog – yeah.

    ‘The Secret’ insists we focus only on what we DO want. What you focus on.. you get.

    Geoff Dodd
    Australia

  • Pat Gunning

    Reply Reply January 1, 2009

    I would add these two things, believe in yourself and reward yourself.

    Perfect post for the New Year Reed

  • Lena Khalid

    Reply Reply January 1, 2009

    Hi Reed,

    Happy New Year. Your blog has always been an interesting idea and also an inspirations to me. Keep it up.

    Regards,
    Lena Khalid
    http://twitter.com/lenakhalid
    http://marketing-online-bloggingway.blogspot.com

    Lena Khalids last blog post..Why is no one to have a presentation

  • charles chan

    Reply Reply January 1, 2009

    I am total in agreeing what had been written by Reed Floren. Self thought through emotional thinking is one of the best for creation. It is our mind have the most powerful means to create and destory. One should be more realistic in life to see what can work or what cannot work. For being able to control and work within oneself. Achieving result greater than that will propel one’s life to succeed. How to bring more success to life check the website of http://www. briantracey.com. The realty answer is there for you.

  • charles chan

    Reply Reply January 1, 2009

    I am total in agreeing what had been written by Reed Floren. Self thought through emotional thinking is one of the best for creation. It is our mind have the most powerful means to create and destory. One should be more realistic in life to see what can work or what cannot work. For being able to control and work within oneself. Achieving result greater than that will propel one’s life to succeed. How to bring more success to life check the website of http://www.briantracey.com. The realty answer is there for you.

  • charles chan

    Reply Reply January 1, 2009

    I have in years searching the right answer how to make money online. What Reed Floren’s blog written had been an aspiration for me looking forward to succeed online. It is no point jumping into a band wagon for quick results. We always say “Time and Tidy Wait For No One”. One need to use our mindset intelligence how to survive this downturn economic period. Don’t let yourself down by saying – it’s the end of the world for me. The true facts come from Rich Dad and Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki teaches you how to turn life around to succeed. You can alway start from small joining a program and slowly built yourself up. It is not how much you know or how much you do not know. God had given us a very powerful mind, use it correctly will alway bring a successful life to you. Check the site here http://itshrunk.com/d2a4d2 and will able to help you out in a long run. Always remeember NOTHING VENTURE NOTHING GAIN.

  • Shawn Horwood

    Reply Reply January 1, 2009

    I believe you also need to reward yourself. Often you will not receive immediate rewards for the things you do, so you need to reward yourself once in a while, otherwise you will become discouraged and lose control of your life before you even receive the rewards for all the hard work. These 10 tips are excellent, and I totally agree with them.
    Shawn Horwood
    http://top5-workathome.com/blog/

    Shawn Horwoods last blog post..Read Your Customer’s Mind

  • PV Reymond

    Reply Reply January 1, 2009

    Hi Reed,

    Great info here.

    Being positive, thinking positive and surrounding yourself with positive people can turn your life around.

    Thanks,
    ^PV Reymond

    http://www.startup-internetbusiness.com

    PV Reymonds last blog post..Great Motivational Phrases

  • Melody Baker

    Reply Reply January 1, 2009

    Well that is all fine for some, but what about those of us, who keep trying to have a positive attitude, and always end up physically damaged, as well as emotionally and money wise?

  • Cheree

    Reply Reply January 1, 2009

    Great post, Reed! So many people are clueless about the effect of their thoughts on their lives. My belief: Thoughts are things. If you don’t want to experience them, don’t dwell on them! I would add another tip to your list. In the words of Thoreau: Simplify, Simplify, Simplify!

    Happy New Year!
    Cheree
    http://blog.wealthbuilderssite.com/

    Cherees last blog post..WebProsperity — This Could be the Most Important 7 Minutes of Your Life!

  • John Bonzo

    Reply Reply January 2, 2009

    Reed,

    I really know what ADD can do to a person and his relationships as well as his business and all othere facets of his life. My oldest daughter was married to a man with ADD and her life was a disaster. I watched her husband slowley eat a way at any hope they had for a real life. I wish she could have spoken to someone like you befor a divorce became the only answer.

    Keep talking. Maybe you can save someone else’s life. ( at least their chance for happiness and a real family life. )

    Thanks for your insight,
    John

  • Geoff Dodd

    Reply Reply January 2, 2009

    Reed, I like this article a lot. It reminds me of the Buddhist teaching, ‘watch the mind – and let it go.. ‘

    Happy Beings everywhere.

    Geoff Dodd
    Australia

  • Marney Lewis

    Reply Reply January 2, 2009

    These are great tips, Reed. Very valuable information. As always, your wonderful and generous efforts are appreciated.

  • Ron Passaro

    Reply Reply January 2, 2009

    Don’t know if I’d want waitresses touching me more or not, but I get the logic 🙂

  • Ari Lestariono

    Reply Reply January 3, 2009

    Body, mind, spirit …in unity with the Divine…to make it happen…

    Ari Lestarionos last blog post..New Year’s Resolution: Best Natural Foods for Longevity

  • Amelia

    Reply Reply January 4, 2009

    Hey Reed,
    I needed that. I used to be positive in my thinking till my husband passed on and the children had grown up and flew the coop.
    So, whenever I was left alone, that
    was the way I felt.
    The tips you gave are really helpful. I shall start going out maybe as you suggested, for a walk whenever the blues grip me.
    Thanks Reed.

  • Beachcomber

    Reply Reply January 4, 2009

    Very stimulating – really.

    As a complete skeptic when it comes to ‘self-improvement’ I actually like reading these ‘voodoo cures’.

    Most of the ten are very relevant.

    However, DETACH FROM ANY NEGATIVE THOUGHTS and SQUASH THE AUTOMATIC NEGATIVE THOUGHTS are questionable.

    You have no control whatsoever over your thoughts.
    If your negative thoughts are ‘automatic’ you have even less than no control over them.

    It defies logic. ALL thoughts are automatic – end of story.

    The ‘Loving, Touching and Squeezing’ thing is fine if you are female – I suppose. I’ve not loved, touched or squeezed anyone since 1979. LOL

    In Aussie, if you tried hugging, touching or squeezing another male you would find yourself in the Emergency Room. And quite right too!

    I love this self improvement stuff – easy money, if used properly.

    Did I mention I was a skeptic?

    Beachcomber.

    “If you want to make God laugh – tell Him you’ve made plans”.

    Beachcombers last blog post..Guru Guide 2009 – well, sort of…

  • Jussi Koiranen

    Reply Reply January 6, 2009

    They showed the Star Wars episodes 2 and 3 during Christmas here in Finland and it was nice to notice that tip to refrain from using absolutes as Obi-wan says it in one of the movies that only the sith deal with absolutes.

  • delords

    Reply Reply January 14, 2009

    Good Tips Reed.

    Thanks Hope to read more.

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