Mind produces unfavorable thought patterns, uncertainties, and anxieties that undermine our potential and impede personal development. An unruly mind can lead us away from contentment and tranquility, just as an unbridled horse might put its rider in danger. To overcome internal conflicts and achieve ultimate self-mastery, we must learn to control our thoughts and emotions. We can turn the mind from our biggest enemy to our most potent ally by taking control of it.

The difference between a settled and active mind is called Awareness. Awareness is being aware of what is going on in your mind.It’s a skill we can all learn to experience what Mindfulness really is about fully.

Why is it that we go around all the time, obviously stressed out and controlled by a lot of things, when we have the one thing inside of us that can set us free from control, allow us to overcome any obstacle, and keep our vitality, happiness, energy, and peace of mind intact? It’s your mind.For until it is a settled mind, it isn’t your mind and you aren’t controlling it.

Do you know, that on average you and I have over 60,000 thoughts a day, that’s on average… This is the law of nature – “We become like whatever we associate with”. We should try to avoid tuning in to negative forces because every time we do, our receptivity to positive forces reduces.

Here are a few steps to help you control your mind:

Listen and Acknowledge Begin by understanding your mind—how it reacts to experiences and situations. Pay attention to your thoughts and ask yourself questions like, “What am I thinking?” and “Where did these thoughts come from?” Identifying the source of your thoughts is crucial in understanding their influence on your mindset.

Make Peace with Your Mind Engage in a dialogue with your mind. Treat it like a close friend, and make your intelligence and mind allies. Intelligence comes from understanding, so strive to nurture this friendship by understanding your mind’s responses and tendencies.

Realize Your Thoughts Are Just Thoughts Remember that your thoughts are simply reflections of past experiences and not necessarily a true representation of reality. Don’t get frustrated by negative or confusing thoughts. Instead, focus on creating new, healthier experiences that can positively influence your mind.

Observe Your Own Mind Practice self-awareness by observing your thoughts and actions. Be fully conscious of your mental patterns and learn to direct your thoughts by assigning your mind different tasks. This will not only help you understand how your mind reacts but will also improve your focus.

Retrain Your Mind to Rewire Your Intelligence Once you become fully aware of your thoughts, you tap into the power of your subconscious mind. The subconscious mind is far more powerful than the conscious mind, and what we repeatedly tell ourselves shapes who we become. Use affirmations to guide your subconscious towards positive thinking and self-growth.