Written by: Francis Eijsackers, Expert Contributor
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The idea that you can change your life by changing your thoughts is a popular theme in self-help books and psychological literature. But recently, I learned something even more intriguing: to acknowledge and accept negative thoughts. Why? Because those thoughts are trying to teach us something. How incredible is that? Could negative thoughts actually hold the key to finding solutions?
Of course, this doesn’t happen automatically. You need to take the time to examine these thoughts. And here’s the hard part—aren’t we all too busy as leaders to do that?
Various authors have shared tips on how to change your thoughts to improve your life. These range from meditation to prayer, letting go to affirmations, and practising self-discipline to replacing negative thoughts with positive ones.
There’s nothing wrong with these approaches. They’re all valid and effective. But the key is to find the methods that resonate with you as a person and as a leader.
My Simple Tips for Busy Leaders
Even with a packed schedule, it’s possible to carve out time for mental clarity. Yes, you can! Here’s how:
Start Your Day with Stillness: Early in the morning, take a few minutes to simply sit with your eyes closed. You don’t need to do anything else. Surprisingly, answers and positive thoughts often come naturally. It’s remarkable!
Just Breathe: When overwhelmed by negative thoughts—even in a work setting—focus on your breathing. Count your breaths slowly. This simple exercise calms your mind almost instantly. Isn’t that wonderful?
Move Your Body: Sometimes, standing up, stretching, and taking a short walk can make all the difference. If you have a bit more time, go for a proper walk. In just five minutes, your creative brain kicks in, problems fade, and solutions start appearing. It’s genuinely mind-blowing!
3 Practical Steps to Shift Your Thoughts
To change your thoughts, here are three easy practices that cost absolutely nothing:
Acknowledge and name your thoughts without judgment.
Make time for a paradigm shift by stepping away from the hustle.
Take a short break and breathe deeply to reset your mind.
And finally, when you feel stuck in negative thoughts, seek support. Talk to someone—a friend, family member, therapist, or coach—to share your feelings and gain perspective.I wish you many positive thoughts and the wisdom to prioritise time for yourself as well. Remember, taking care of your own mental clarity isn’t selfish—it’s essential for leading others effectively.
About the Author
Francis Eijsackers, MBA, is an award-winning entrepreneur and mental health professional, with a passion for networking and connecting with people globally. She is the CEO of Francis4YourPractice, an organisation and consultancy agency specialising in interim management, people management, and practice organisation for the healthcare sector.
Francis4YourPractice provides essential support to healthcare organisations, working purposefully, results-oriented, and passionately to optimise your operations. With extensive experience managing over 700 people, Francis is an invaluable resource for tackling questions about leadership, integrity, and mental health for leaders.
Her motto? Never stop learning—commit to lifelong development.
For more information, visit https://www.linkedin.com/in/francis-eijsackers/
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