We all have a hefty list of tasks to get through each day. Naturally, we dread going to half of them, or they probably wouldn’t be on a “To-Do” list. Usually, these tasks on the “To-Do” list are things we dread doing. Or at least do not get excited. But what if we did? It could be as simple as changing your mindset, really.
Imagine every task that you don’t get initial excitement for as something you get to do, not something you have to do. Instead of thinking of these tasks as a negative, rework your thoughts to appreciate your ability to complete them.
The psychology behind it
When it’s all broken down, the “I Get To” mindset comes down to simple psychology. Your mind is a reflection of your thoughts. If you associate negative feelings with a task, your brain will negatively view that activity. A simple mind trick is to switch the negative thoughts with positive ones to help motivate your mind to get excited to tackle these stubborn tasks.
Cognitive reframing is reworking your brain to view situations differently. That is exactly what the “I Get To” mindset is. Reworking your viewpoint on tasks to look at them with more appreciation and gratitude.
Appreciation
It is easy to lose sight of the simple gifts we have been given. It is often forgotten to appreciate the little things we have. Things we take for granted in the day-to-day, like our five senses, mobility and ability to express our minds. When we step back and appreciate these little gifts we have, it is easier to tap into the “I Get To” mindset.
Use it in your day to day
So, where can we use the “I Get To” mindset? The next time you are thinking about skipping class, think about how you get to learn. You have been given the gift of higher education and the capacity to learn. You don’t have to go to class; you get to go to class.
You get to work towards the goal of a bachelor’s degree. You get to learn key knowledge that will help you later on in life when you’re looking for jobs. The same applies to going to the gym or other workouts. You don’t have to go to the gym. It is a blessing to move your body each day and take steps to become stronger.
How are you going to implement the “I Get To” mindset? Let us know @VALLEYmag on Instagram!
