Self-control is defined as our ability to manage our thoughts, actions, feelings and emotions. This quote from James Allen is quite thought-provoking – “Self-control is strength, right thought is mastery, calmness is power.”
In this article, we will focus on the importance of controlling our thoughts and our words in order to have a successful 2021.
Controlling our thoughts
The quality of our thoughts determines the quality of our lives because “As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he” says Proverbs. The reality is that we gradually become the product of our thoughts. The questions we should concern ourselves with though at the beginning of the year include – What kinds of thoughts are we feeding ourselves with regarding this year? Are they thoughts of insecurity, fear, worry, anxiety, envy, jealousy, bitterness and unforgiveness? You become what you think. It is time to pause as you read this article and examine the quality of your thoughts. It is not too late to work on your thoughts. Ralph Waldo Emerson declared a tremendous truth, “They conquer who believe they can.” And he added “Do the thing you fear and the death of fear is certain” while Vincent Norman Peale encourages us to, “Practice confidence and faith and your fears and insecurities will soon have no power over you”.
If our thoughts are negative, fearful and discouraging, we will end up with negative, fearful and discouraging actions and these will inevitably lead us to negative, fearful and discouraging results.
On the first of January, I met a gentleman we can call Max and I asked him, “how do you see the year 2021?” His answer had contagious optimism. He said, “know God, st and firm and do exploits.” I was challenged by his choice of words and how he has a strong faith that his consistent speaking of such words will frame his future.
Controlling our words
It is said that “life and death are in the power of the tongue”
For Max, his Source is really important to him and his connection to that Source gives him an unlimited, healthy, powerful and fruitful mindset. Max’s mindset is fueled by his positive thoughts and these thoughts are put into words which he has written down. Below are some of his words:
- I am capable, nothing is impossible for me.
- I am excellent in everything I do
- I am the best version of myself
- I am loved and I am caring
- I am excited about life and I am joyful
- I am emotionally intelligent therefore my emotions are working for me and not against me.
- Obstacles are opportunities in disguise.
- I am a solution-provider
- I am consistent and purposeful
- I am flexible and innovative
- My mind is fruitful and explores new opportunities
- I am always grateful
- There is hope for my future
Consistently nurturing ourselves with positive thoughts and choosing to say positive words while acting on our plans will lead us to a successful and excellent 2021.
Patrick Abah-Dakou