What you pay attention to grows stronger in your life

If you constantly think about what frightens you, you will become more fearful.

by Ada Porat — 

You shape your life through the power of your attention. Where your attention goes, the energy of life flows — this is a scientific fact. Scientists have determined that the attention of an observer affects the movement of quantum particles. Your thoughts, emotions and feelings are energetic particles as well, and your attention draws the particles closer to you, resonating with what you focus on.

Whatever you pay attention to, whether by thinking about it, talking about it, worrying about it or fearing it, will increase and multiply until it absolutely affects your life and what you become.

If you constantly think about what frightens you, you will become more fearful. If you constantly think about how unfair life is, you will see more and more evidence around you to support this viewpoint. If you believe your life is worthless, your choices and behavior will reflect these beliefs.

On the other hand, when you pay close, conscious and purposeful attention to what is positive, hopeful, supportive, uplifting and encouraging, your life will inevitably reflect this.

This does not mean that every factor in your life is the manifestation of an inner thought. Other crucial factors over which you have little or no control are involved as well, from social issues and genetic factors to cultural influences and economic issues.

Nevertheless, you do have the power to control your response to life. You have the power to choose what you focus on. And whatever your circumstances, you can direct your attention to that which will most positively support your attitudes and actions.

You can shift your focus — and your mood — in a number of ways:

• Think about something else entirely. Switch your attention to something that engages and stimulates you.
• Engage in demanding physical activity. Dance, walk, listen to music, exercise, play or engage in absorbing activities that minimize negative thoughts.
• Challenge unhelpful thoughts. Ask yourself whether they represent the absolute facts or whether they are simply your own negative projections, fears and assumptions.
• List your worries. Consciously write down all your worries, fears and negative thoughts. Then crumple up the paper and toss it, burn it or tear it up, while visualizing yourself getting rid of the apprehensive thoughts and negativity.
• Make a gratitude list. List all the positive things in your life that you are grateful for; give thanks for them and feel the positive energy shift you into a positive mindset.

Taking positive action to direct what you focus on will change your energy levels, your mood and, ultimately, your life.

Ada Porat is an energy kinesiologist and life coach who facilitates personal development through the integration of body, mind and spirit. 602-283-4628 or www.AdaPorat.com.

Reprinted from AzNetNews, Volume 28, Number 5, Oct/Nov 2009.