Cheat, Lie And Steal - Fix Your Brain

Have you ever felt like negative thoughts keep creeping in even when you try to stay positive? It's like a loop that won't switch off and it can feel exhausting. In this podcast episode, we explore a simple technique to bust through those pesky feelings.

The core idea centres on recognising these thoughts and then taking an action that flips them around. You’ll learn how building a small habit can create a powerful mindset shift. The technique seems easy to forget, so we'll also talk about how to keep it going day after day.

Understanding the Negative Feelings

We all carry self-doubt and insecurities. Whether it’s worrying about making a mistake at work or feeling unsure in a social setting, negative thoughts can strike at any time. They’re not always logical, yet they manage to squeeze into our minds.

The first step is noticing them. Once you realise that a wave of negativity is building, you can respond before it grows legs. One way is to pause and name the feeling. It’s easy to say, “I’m feeling anxious,” then remind yourself it doesn’t define you.

The Technique to Move On

The episode shares a method that’s surprisingly straightforward. It's less about pushing the bad vibes away and more about swapping them for something else. Think of it like changing a TV channel when you don’t like what's on.

You might choose to focus on something that sparks gratitude or bring your attention to something practical and positive. Even if it's just one breath or a small stretch, that shift can break the chain of negativity.

“I’m seeing some signs of this technique being a winner. Now I just have to remember to keep doing it!”

Turning It Into a Daily Habit

Of course, the trick is not forgetting to use it. Our brains love old habits, especially if they involve worry or procrastination. To make this technique stick, consider pairing it with something you do daily, like brushing your teeth or making a hot drink.

You could pause for a moment and do a mini-check. Ask yourself, “Am I feeling off?” If the answer is yes, switch that negative channel right then and there. A tiny reminder like an alarm on your phone could help, or a sticky note on your fridge.

Maintaining Momentum

It’s easy to start strong and then slip into old patterns once life gets busy. Give yourself permission to slip up now and then. The key is to realise it and get back on track. Celebrate each time you catch a negative thought and choose a different path.

To keep momentum:

• Set a quick reminder on your phone each morning.
• Create a small ritual, like a mindful pause, after lunch.
• Ask someone to gently prompt you if they notice you’re spiralling.

Over time, you’ll train your brain to redirect those negative loops more naturally. It becomes less of a chore and more second nature. And the more you do it, the less you’ll worry about slipping. It’s like building a mental muscle, one repetition at a time.

Key Takeaways

• Negative thoughts often pop up without warning, but they’re not the full story.
• Recognising them early is the trigger that allows you to switch gears.
• You can swap negativity for something positive or neutral by focusing on a small intentional action.
• Building daily routines makes the technique stick.
• Celebrate small wins and get back on track if you miss a day.

If you’d like to dive deeper into how this technique works in real life and hear some personal examples, listen to the full episode at the top of this page. I think you’ll find it uplifting and full of practical ideas. Tune in when you can and see how much lighter you feel after trying it out.