Unlock Your Winning Mindset: Strategies for Success in Life & Business

Are you usually a happy, optimistic person? If you were to ask me this I would say yes, and others who know me would say the same thing.

But then I had an unexpected illness that literally knocked me off my feet. It started with a slow decline in my energy, followed by a moderate fever. I thought to myself, “Ok, I have the flu. This is rare for me, and I will just take it easy for the next few days and be better.”

Instead, the fever continued, along with other mounting conditions - not for 24 hours, not three days, or even seven - but 15 days until I ended up in the hospital.

Despite many labs, x-rays, and scans there were no answers, and I became increasingly discouraged and frightened as the days went on. It’s an understatement to say that my optimistic mindset was tested.

If you too, are generally a “cup half full” type of person, there will still undoubtedly be days, weeks, or even longer when you find yourself in the midst of deep adversities – and will struggle to maintain a winning mindset.

That’s why in today’s blog, I want to share some tactics - I like to call them “Genius Hacks” that have the power to revolutionize the way you think and approach life’s challenges.

You Have Power Over Your Mindset

In the fast-paced, ever-changing world we live in, it's easy to find yourself overwhelmed by negative thoughts and self-doubt. Especially in times of struggle, it may seem like those voices in your head are in control, limiting your potential and hindering your path to success.

However, the truth is, you have tremendous power over your mindset. By understanding how your mind works and implementing a few key strategies, you can radically change the way you think, transforming your life in ways you never imagined possible.

Genius Hacks to Master Your Mind

You know as well as I do that your attitude and mental outlook make all the difference in how you show up every day – not only for yourself – but for those you lead and love.

Are you ready to unlock and healthier, happier you? Read on to learn five proven strategies to upgrade your mental outlook and navigate life’s twists and turns with grace and resilience.

Genius Hack #1: The Power of Awareness

To cultivate a positive mindset, self-awareness is the key that unlocks the door. Pay attention to your internal dialogue using these techniques:

• Observe your thoughts. Are they predominantly positive or negative? Do they empower you, or do they hold you back?
• Monitor the language you use. Notice the words you choose when speaking to yourself. Are they kind and supportive, or critical and demeaning?
• Identify patterns. Tune into the responses that you typically find yourself repeating. Once you understand the nature and patterns of your thoughts, it empowers you to change them.

Remember, awareness sets the stage for positive transformation.

Genius Hack #2: The Art of Mindfulness

Mindfulness is the practice of intentionally focusing on the present moment without judgment. It's about accepting your feelings and experiences without getting carried away by them.

Here's how to incorporate mindfulness into your life:

• Dedicated practice. Carve out short periods in your day, even just 5-10 minutes, to sit quietly and focus on your breath, bodily sensations, and the world around you.
• Mindful moments. Find opportunities to be present in your daily activities. While washing dishes, savor the feeling of the warm water on your hands. While walking, notice the sensations of movement in your body.
• Mindfulness apps. Apps like Headspace, Calm, and Insight Timer offer guided meditations to support your practice.

Mindfulness trains your brain to focus on the here and now, reducing stress, and enhancing your overall well-being.

Genius Hack #3: Challenge Negative Thoughts

Our minds tend to dwell on the negative but remember - you are not your thoughts. Negative thoughts are often based on fear, insecurities, and past experiences, but they don't define you. Here's how to challenge those sneaky saboteurs:

• The truth test. This is one of my key tactics as my negative “go to” is to catastrophize. When I was in the throes of an illness I didn’t understand, it was far too easy to imagine worst case scenario. When a negative thought pops up, ask yourself, "Is this really true?" Often, our brains exaggerate or distort reality.
• Reframing. Consciously replace negative thoughts with more empowering ones. For example, instead of "I can’t do this," say "I am learning and growing every day."
• Seek evidence. Find proof that contradicts your negative beliefs. Think of past successes or positive feedback you've received. Talk to a friend to get a unique perspective.

It isn't easy to challenge negative thoughts at first, but with practice, you'll start noticing a shift toward a more positive and empowering inner dialogue.

Genius Hack #4: Cultivate Curiosity

Curiosity is a powerful antidote to negativity and a key ingredient of a growth mindset. Instead of reacting negatively to a challenge or a difficult emotion, channel that energy into a quest for understanding.

• Dig deeper. When you're experiencing a negative emotion, ask yourself, "What might be causing this feeling?" or "What lessons can I learn from this experience?"
• Ask open-ended questions. When facing a challenge, ask yourself "What possibilities exist?" or "How might I approach this differently?"
• Embrace the unknown. Instead of fearing the unexpected, accept the circumstances as they are right now. When I felt fear rise up during my illness, I would tell myself, “I don’t know but God does, and He’s got this. One day at a time.” Choose to view what you don’t know as an opportunity to explore, innovate, and learn.

Curiosity breeds optimism and resilience, allowing you to navigate challenges with a sense of wonder and possibility.

Genius Hack #5: Gratitude – the Ultimate Mindset Booster

Practicing gratitude is one of the simplest, most profound ways to foster a positive mindset. It shifts your focus from what's lacking to what's abundant in your life.

• Gratitude Journal. Dedicate time daily to reflect on three to five things you're grateful for. They can be simple pleasures, people you love, or positive experiences.
• Gratitude in the moment. Take time to savor the small, everyday joys: a restful night of sleep, sunny weather, or a kind gesture. In times of trial, it is harder to see the good things, but you can find them.

I remember being grateful for my husband Graham who took such wonderful care of me; for friends and family who had me in their hearts and prayers; and for my fabulous neighbor Debbie who brought us delicious meals.

• Express thanks. Share your gratitude with others. A simple "thank you" can make a significant difference for both you and the recipient.

Developing a heart of gratitude rewires your brain to see the good, creating a lasting foundation for a more joyful and fulfilling life.

Today I am glad to have that illness behind me, though the doctors still have been unable to diagnose the issue. Even though it is my purpose in this world, this situation deeply reminded me that you have the power to choose your mindset and joy every day despite circumstances.

Remember my friend, mastering your mindset is an ongoing journey, not a destination. It takes practice and perseverance, but the rewards are immeasurable.

Take some time with these Genius Hacks and pick a couple of them to get started on this week. As you adopt these strategies, you'll find yourself better equipped to manage challenges, embrace growth opportunities, and create a life filled with purpose and happiness.