Change Your Thinking to Change Your Life with Kate James in her new book
Kate James is the author of four best-selling personal development books, Believe in Yourself and Do What You Love, Be Mindful, Simplify Your Life, Change How You Think and Be Happier Now and Build Resilience and Free Yourself from Fear. She understands the ‘work life balance’ juggle first-hand having managed a successful career as she raised two (now adult) daughters.
In Change Your Thinking to Change Your Life, Kate introduces us to a range of techniques. These are based on her knowledge of mindfulness, positive psychology, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), creativity and neuropsychology. And, they will help us clarify our goals, realise our purpose and connect more fully with the wonder of life.
The book is out on 27 January, 2021, but here are some sneak peeks. Kate covers many more topics in this incredible book that is well worth the read.
Know your strengths
Most of us take our natural strengths for granted. We live with them every day and because we’re so close to them, we don’t recognise that these strengths are unique gifts that others don’t always have. When we are able to embrace this uniqueness and explore how we can use our natural strengths every day, our lives become significantly richer.
Visualise your best possible self
Choose a time in the future (maybe five or ten years from now) and imagine you have become your best possible self. What kind of person would you be, what new relationships would you have, which interests would you have embraced, and how do you think you’d feel?
When you are in a moment of suffering
As you encounter difficult feelings, say to yourself:
- This is a moment of suffering.
- Suffering is part of life; I am not alone in my suffering.
- May I be kind to myself, may I give myself what I need.
Actively notice and savour positive experiences.
This might include reflecting on seemingly inconsequential moments – the scent of a flower; a great cup of coffee; the smile of a passer-by; a kind word from a friend. Tune in to your own positive qualities and focus on the small wins – a conversation that went well, the completion of a task or overcoming a minor obstacle.