What Do I Want

I’ve noticed times when I’m caught in a negative spiral, spending my day focused on what I don’t want. Whether it’s dreading a project, not wanting to talk to someone, or even disliking where I live, these thoughts can weigh me down.

It’s not wrong to acknowledge what I don’t want, but it becomes exhausting to move through my day when my mind is stuck in negativity. What happens when I’m in that mindset is that I’m still using energy, but it’s often wasted on avoiding tasks, doing them begrudgingly, or forcing myself through with frustration.

That’s why it’s crucial to shift gears and ask: What DO I want?

If I don’t want to talk to someone, who do I want to talk to? If I’m resisting working on a project, what do I want to focus on instead? By identifying what I want, I can better direct my energy.

This reframing helps me recognize that maybe it’s not about avoiding the person altogether but rather finding a better time to connect. Or, maybe I do want to work on the project but need help to move forward. Even if I discover that I don’t want to do either, I need to pinpoint what I do want to do, so my energy isn’t wasted in negativity.

ACTION: Next time you catch yourself stuck in negativity, pause and reframe the situation. Instead of focusing on what you don’t want, ask yourself: What DO I want right now? Identify one small shift you can make to redirect your energy toward something positive or more manageable. This practice can help you regain control and move forward with a clearer mindset.

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