Mindset that shapes our lives
“Mindset” is a powerful word. It influences the choices we make, the way we face life’s challenges, and how we interact with others each day.
These choices, challenges, and interactions reflect either a positive or a negative mindset. It is this way of thinking that we call “mindset’. Ultimately, it is the kind of perspective we bring which shapes our attitudes, influences our actions, and determines who we are.
I have two friends who, when faced with the similar circumstances, made different choices and ended up with completely different outcomes. It started when they were laid off from work and were devastated. Both had families to support and children in college.
Finally, a couple of months later, they found jobs. However, it was out of town. Relocating to a different city was a difficult decision. One friend decided to move with his family. The other friend was reluctant. He was hopeful that, given more time, he would find a job in the same city.
For the family that moved, life gradually got back to normal. On the other hand, the friend who stayed back was unemployed for quite a few months. This resulted in him taking a loan, selling a car and not to mention the mental anguish and turmoil that he and his family went through.
This is a good example of how both friends' states of mind influenced their choices and affected their lives in completely different ways. While one saw it as an opportunity for a better life, the other saw it as the end of the road. Their mindset was not the same, which prompted them to make choices that led to different outcomes.
There are many such situations that we encounter in our daily lives or even go through them ourselves. In the end, it all comes down to the choices we make, which, in turn can make or break a situation.
However, what about people with greater financial resources. Since they have more money at their disposal, we can assume, that they have a different mindset, so it will automatically be easier for them to make desirable choices. Research shows that while money might contribute to happiness, it does not guarantee a positive attitude or optimism. Other factors like relationships, health, purpose in life, are also important and can determine our mindset.
Another important aspect that depends on our state of mind is the kind of company we keep. People who are upbeat and cheerful are more fun to be around as opposed to people who are pessimistic and constantly complaining about their lives.
Who would you like to be with and why? The lens through which we see the world and respond to it is crucial. Our mindset influences the choices we make and, if left unchecked, can create a “ripple effect” which can grow exponentially unless there is a conscious effort to stop it. After all this discussion about choice, positive and negative attitude, optimistic and pessimistic people, it all comes down to our state of mind. While we cannot always control the circumstances we face in our lives, we can choose how we respond to them. The encouraging fact is that life is not fixed, it can be changed. This is very well captured in the following proverb, “We cannot change the wind, but we can adjust the sails.”
The writer is educator and author of children books based in the USA; Views presented are personal.
