The saying “As you think, so shall you become” highlights the critical connection between the quality of our initial thoughts and the outcomes we want to achieve, and it can act as a cornerstone for personal and professional development. There’s a parallel, that I have referred to in a previous article, about the meticulous planning of an architect who, understanding the importance of a solid foundation, carefully lays out the groundwork for a grand structure. Using this parallel, our mental framework, with its depth and precision, can become the blueprint for our success.
I love what Jay Shetty says and how he communicates, he’s a beacon of wisdom in what seems to be a continuing tumultuous world, and he eloquently speaks to the power of our thoughts and intentions. He asserts that the clarity and depth with which we cultivate our mindset are pivotal to achieving profound success. I have seen in my own life that this concept is not just philosophical rhetoric, but embodies a practical approach to living and leading.
Leadership experts like Simon Sinek and Brené Brown have also touched on similar themes. Sinek, with his concept of “Start With Why,” highlights the importance of us understanding the deeper purpose behind our actions. This is the same as laying a strong foundation for a building; knowing your “why” guides the “how” and the “what.” Brené Brown, on the other hand, emphasises the power of vulnerability and courage in leadership, suggesting that a deep understanding of oneself and one’s team can lead to more authentic and powerful outcomes.
Mindfulness in Action
The practice of mindfulness, championed by experts like Jon Kabat-Zinn and Eckhart Tolle, highlight the transformative power of being present and deliberate with our thoughts. Kabat-Zinn’s mantra, “Wherever you go, there you are,” suggests that by grounding our thoughts in the moment, we ensure that they are purposeful and deep. Tolle, with his emphasis on the power of now, advocates for a foundation of mindfulness as a catalyst for effective decision-making and action.
Mindfulness in action involves a conscious effort to align our thoughts with our actions, ensuring that each step we take is infused with intention and awareness. This practice not only enhances our focus and productivity but also cultivates a sense of peace and resilience in the face of challenges. By adopting a mindful approach to our thoughts, we lay the groundwork for outcomes that are not only successful but also align with our deepest values and purposes.
Embracing Chaos
In the journey towards realising our visions, embracing chaos becomes an essential skill (and it is something that we cannot avoid). Chaos, is often seen as an adversary to progress, but it holds within it the seeds of creativity and transformation. Just as an architect must contend with unpredictable elements and adapt plans accordingly, we too must learn to navigate the uncertainties of life with agility and grace.
Embracing chaos involves recognising the potential for growth and innovation that lies within unpredictable circumstances. It requires us to shift perspective, and rather than view chaos as a barrier, see it as a catalyst for evolution. This shift is rooted in the depth and precision of our thoughts. By cultivating a mindset that sees beyond the immediate turmoil to the potential for new beginnings, we can use the power of chaos as a tool for shaping our desired outcomes.
The Synergy of Mindfulness and Chaos
The synergy between mindfulness and chaos creates a dynamic framework for personal and professional growth. Mindfulness anchors us in the present, enabling a clear and focused mind, while chaos challenges us to expand our boundaries and embrace the unknown. Together, they can develop a mindset that is both resilient and adaptable – qualities essential for navigating the complexities of the modern world.
As Jay Shetty reminds us, our thoughts are the seeds from which our realities grow. In a world that often emphasises action over contemplation, embracing mindfulness and chaos invites us to become the architects of our own destiny. It encourages us to lay a foundation of intentional thoughts, upon which we can build structures of success that withstand the test of time and change.
In Closing
The principle that our thoughts shape our realities is a call to embrace both mindfulness and chaos in our individual journeys. By nurturing depth and precision in our thoughts, and by learning to navigate the unpredictability of life with agility, we set the stage for outcomes that are not only successful but also deeply fulfilling. As I have said before and will do again, I must start each day anew and consciously embrace this and I encourage you to also commit to the process of mastering the art of mindfulness and to embracing the creative potential of chaos. Let’s build the grand structures of our lives on the solid foundation of our thoughts!
If all you can hear is chaos, then this free “Take Ten to Unwind” meditation from Tinx Therapy, an expert in anxiety, is a great place to start and I cannot recommend her enough. Click here to register for her free download.