Most of us have been taught that it’s best to be prepared for the worst possible scenario, which makes sense. However, dwelling too much on all the terrible things that could possibly happen can have a detrimental effect on your overall mood and mindset.
Fear has a way of creeping into your mind and taking over, so that everything begins to look and feel like a threat. You start worrying and obsessing about whether this awful thing might happen, or that scary thing might come to pass. While it’s true that these unpleasant scenarios are always a possibility, there are also plenty of positive things that could happen. Afterall, it is said that 99% of the things we fear never happen. By focusing too much on the negative what-ifs, you actually end up investing your energy into them, so that they become more likely to show up in your life.
Does that mean that you should never worry about potential threats, nor take steps to be prepared for them? Not at all. Denial only strengthens feelings of fear and helplessness, while a more balanced perspective will encourage feelings of security and confidence.
It is wise to think ahead about potential challenges and take steps to safeguard the well-being of yourself, your loved ones, your home and belongings. But once your preparations are complete and you have done all you can to be ready, continuing to dwell on the scary possibilities will only keep you feeling fearful and powerless.
Instead, make a deliberate effort to pivot your thoughts to focus more on the positive possibilities, and the good that already exists in your life. Look around and feel a sense of gratitude and appreciation for everything that’s wonderful about your life right now. Recognize just how blessed you truly are. No matter how big your challenges might be, you probably still have many more blessings and good things in your life than the negative stuff. Keep reminding yourself of that and allow yourself to feel genuinely grateful for it.
Also try to keep a sense of healthy optimism about the future. Optimism isn’t about denying that there are potential threats out there, but rather it’s a deliberate choice to focus on the good and expect the best, rather than fearing the worst. Say often, “Good things are coming my way. This situation can still lead to something better.” You may not always fully believe that in the moment, but simply by practicing the thought consistently, you are investing your energy and intention into those positive possibilities.
Finally, keep building an inner foundation of trust. Trust in the goodness of life, trust in a loving universe, and trust in your own capabilities. Remind yourself that no matter what, you have the strength and resilience to handle any challenges that could potentially come your way.
Rather than living in a state of constant fear about the possible storms in life, you will enjoy a sense of confidence that you are as ready as you can be for whatever might happen next. You will be fully attuned to the goodness that is already all around you, and the never-ending stream of goodness that is always flowing to you, if you will just trust and stay open to receive it.
