How to Change Thoughts and Behaviors

Many people must learn to deal with intrusive thoughts that impact their behaviors. For some, these thoughts can over take their lives and become detrimental to their well being. Learning how to change your thoughts can affect your behavior in a positive way. Known as cognitive-behavioral therapy, this can assist almost any person in developing a more positive perspective and behavior pattern.

Instructions

• 1

  Identify the thoughts and behaviors you want to change, and write them down.

• 2

  Write down why each thought or behavior is detrimental to your current life situation. Since thoughts directly impact your behaviors, the more negative thoughts you have, the more negative your life is likely to be.

• 3

  Look for patterns or connections in your negative thinking and behavior. For example, a negative thought you hold could be, "No one likes me or wants to spend time with me." See if there are isolating behaviors on your list because you think no one wants to be around you. You could be subconsciously pushing people away due to your negative thinking pattern.

• 4

  Replace or counter each negative thought on your list with a few positive thoughts. Use these alternatives whenever you start to think negatively. For example, say to yourself, "I am a great person, and I have friends. I just need to reach out and connect with them."

• 5

  Practice saying at least three positive things to yourself throughout the day to train your mind to think positively rather than negatively. Make a list of positive affirmations to read to yourself or look back and choose three things from that particular day. The more you practice positive thinking, the easier it will become. Notice how the change in your thoughts will influence your behaviors.