Did you know that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are all connected? This means that how we interpret an event or circumstance will impact what we feel and how we choose to respond.
For example, If Johnny is walking down the hallway and bumps into me I may THINK: “Johnny is mean, he did that on purpose” This may lead me to FEEL: Angry. Because I have these strong feelings, I may react with BEHAVIOURS such as pushing him back.
However, if Johnny is walking down the hallway and bumps into me and I THINK: “Johnny wasn’t looking where he was going, that must have been an accident”. It will change how I feel. I may FEEL a little frustrated or annoyed and because I think it was an accident I just keep on walking and let it go.
Mindset is the way our brain perceives ourselves and the world. There are going to be many times in our lives when things are hard or feel uncertain, like right now with this pandemic. It is during these difficult moments that it is super important for us to choose to a positive mindset and think positive thoughts so we can feel good and make positive choices.
Try this:
As a class, group or family watch the following video that explains how thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are connected
Thoughts, Feelings and Behaviours Video
Try this:
Affirmations are positive statements that can help you to challenge and overcome negative thoughts. When you repeat them often, and believe in them, you can start to make positive change. Create your own affirmation poster!
Ask yourself, there is no wrong answer
What are 2 negative thoughts you had recently?
What positive thought could you have had instead?
For example: Negative thought: This is too hard Positive thought: I can do this with some help.
Connecting to our faith:
“...whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. (Philippians 4:8)
Further Learning & Resources:
Big Life Kids Podcast https://biglifejournal.com/pages/podcast
https://www.mindsetworks.com/science/