Mindset Shift Blog Series Part 3: The Impact of Surroundings on Our Actions
Negative thoughts can become deeply ingrained filters through which we view and interact with the world.
Miss the other week’s in this series? Click below to find the links to all posts in this series.
Our environment plays a significant role in shaping our thoughts and behaviors. Have you ever noticed how a cluttered room can make you feel overwhelmed, or how a peaceful walk in nature can calm your mind? Imagine driving home from work and automatically turning into your usual route without consciously thinking about it, or going through your morning routine on autopilot. Just as these habitual actions become second nature, our thought patterns also become automatic, influenced heavily by our surroundings. Negative thoughts can become deeply ingrained filters through which we view and interact with the world. This is why creating a positive environment is so crucial. Proverbs 23:7 (NKJV) tells us, “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.” Our thoughts shape our reality, and our surroundings significantly influence those thoughts.
Evaluating Our Surroundings
To create a positive mindset, we must first evaluate our current environment and identify what inhibits us from maintaining focused, positive thought processes. Here are some aspects to consider:
Negative Influences:
Messiness: A cluttered, disorganized space can lead to feelings of chaos and stress.
Distractions: Constant interruptions from notifications, loud noises, or other distractions can hinder our ability to concentrate.
Lighting: Poor lighting can affect our mood and energy levels, making it harder to stay positive.
Social Media and News: Excessive consumption of social media and negative news can feed into negative thinking patterns.
Negative People* Surrounding ourselves with people who are constantly negative or critical can drain our energy and reinforce negative thoughts.
Time of Day: Identifying when you are least productive and positive can help in structuring your day better.
Positive Influences:
Clean and Organized Spaces: A tidy environment can promote clarity of thought and a sense of calm.
Minimal Distractions: Setting up a space with minimal interruptions can help maintain focus and positivity.
Good Lighting: Natural light or well-lit spaces can boost mood and energy levels.
Positive Content: Engaging with uplifting and inspiring content can foster a positive mindset.
Encouraging People: Surrounding ourselves with supportive, positive individuals can uplift our spirits and reinforce positive thinking.
– **Optimal Time:** Knowing whether you thrive in the early morning or late at night can help you plan your most important tasks accordingly.
“Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.” – Joshua 1:8 (NIV)
Practical Application
Creating a Positive Environment
Once we’ve evaluated our surroundings, the next step is to set goals for the type of environment we want to create. Here are practical steps to help you design a space that supports positive thinking:
Start by decluttering your space. Get rid of items that no longer serve a purpose and organize your belongings. A clean and tidy environment can significantly reduce stress and promote clarity of thought.
1 Corinthians 14:40 (NIV) – “But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.”
Identify sources of distractions and find ways to minimize them. This could involve setting up a designated workspace, turning off notifications, or creating a quiet zone for focused work. Here are additional examples:
Create a Quiet Zone: Find a space in your home where you can work or think without interruptions. Use noise-canceling headphones if needed.
Set Device Limits: Limit the use of electronic devices during specific times to avoid unnecessary distractions.
Time Management: Allocate specific times for checking emails and social media, and stick to them to avoid constant interruptions.
mprove Lighting: Ensure your workspace is well-lit. If possible, use natural light to brighten your space. Good lighting can enhance your mood and energy, making it easier to stay positive.
Practical Application: Tell your family or housemates you need 20 minutes of undisturbed time. Set device limits to reduce distractions from your phone or computer.
Be mindful of the media you consume. Limit exposure to negative news and social media, and instead, engage with content that uplifts and inspires you. Most importantly, make engaging with God’s Word a main focal point in your daily routine. Meditating on scriptures that affirm your identity in Christ and God’s promises for your life is essential for renewing your mind.
Joshua 1:8 (NIV) – “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.”
Establish clear boundaries to protect your positive environment. This might include setting specific times for focused work, finding a quiet place to think, or scheduling regular breaks to refresh your mind.
Calendar times to go to a quiet place, such as a park or a library. Set specific times in your day for focused work or reflection, and communicate these boundaries to those around you.
By taking these steps to evaluate and improve your surroundings, you can create an environment that fosters positive thinking and supports your overall well-being. Remember, your environment plays a crucial role in shaping your thoughts and behaviors, so make intentional choices to cultivate a space that uplifts and inspires you.