How to Improve Cognitive Shifting

Cognitive shifting is the process of altering and reversing negative thought patterns. The patient undergoing this therapy must foster an increased awareness of their thoughts and focus their intentions on "shifting" their mental behavior. This might mean conquering a fear of flying, quitting a habit or addiction or even improving focus and attention. There are a few important steps to follow in order to improve the process of cognitive shifting and make the transition a more positive experience for the patient.

Instructions

• 1

  Get sufficient sleep every night, at least six to eight hours. It has been proven that much of the unconscious processing we need in order to successfully shift our cognitive patterns actually happens during sleep, even though we might be more actively engaged in our therapy during the day.

• 2

  Practice meditation daily, even if this means quietly focusing on your breath for fifteen minutes at a time. There are plenty of websites and podcasts that offer free guided meditations, which you can do in the comfort of your own home. Make sure you can find a quiet place, where you will not be disturbed by your family or street noise, that you can use as your daily retreat. The important thing is to just breathe, keep a straight spine and relax your entire body, pulling your focus inwards for the duration of your meditation.

• 3

  Keep a journal to make lists of your negative thoughts, then shift or flip them on paper; you will be able to watch the change in your thought patterns. If your fear is "I never have enough money," you can cross out this thought and write something else like, "I always have enough money to get by." This is a great way to not only rationalize and communicate your fears, but to feel like you also have control over them.