The mind has an
interesting way of sorting information so that events are matched to our
beliefs to assist us in making sense of life. On any given day, our brain is
scanning every experience we have to search for anything that connects with our
existing beliefs. All information will be considered for the material that
gives confirmation to our beliefs. When a match is identified, the brain accepts it as truth. Other information that doesn't
fit is deleted. Below are
ways our beliefs create our reality.
1.
Your beliefs
influence other people’s behavior: Your beliefs
can shape your reality by influencing other people’s behavior (from close
relationships to complete strangers). Your beliefs may also elicit
corresponding behavior from romantic partners. People who see their partners in a more
idealized light than their partners see themselves tend to become more
satisfied with their relationships over time, experience less conflict, and are
more likely to stay together. More secure partners are more likely to behave in
generous and constructive ways,
which provides greater relationship satisfaction.
2.
Your beliefs
influence your behavior: One of the most basic ways that
beliefs can shape reality is through their influence on behavior. Contrary to
the common assumption that overconfidence can backfire, research suggests that
it may actually be beneficial. These kinds of people tend to appear more socially skilled and higher in social
status. People with beliefs are more likely to engage in health-promoting
behaviors like eating well and exercising.
Beliefs about
who you are as a person on a fundamental level can be especially powerful. Some
evidence suggests that praising character ( as opposed to behavior) is a more
effective means of promoting positive behaviors.
3.
Your beliefs
may impact your health: Health and disease are influenced by
multiple interacting factors (many of which are not fully under your control).
This includes genetics, exposure to
environmental toxins, history of trauma, and
socioeconomic circumstances. Middle-aged adults who held more positive beliefs
about aging lived an average of 7.6 years longer than those who held more negative beliefs (even when
controlling for current health and other risk factors).
How can you harness the power of belief to improve your life? You can
engage in practices that change your habitual way of thinking (such as keeping
a gratitude journal or
learning mindfulness
meditation). These practices can help you
notice and appreciate the good in life, and keep you from getting caught up in
negative thoughts. You can set clear intentions on how you want to approach
each day.
You can recognize that while
beliefs may be powerful. They are not all-powerful. Life is full of suffering
that we do not deserve. Recognizing the limitations of belief can make us more
compassionate towards those who find themselves in unfortunate circumstances
(including ourselves).
“Man often
becomes what he believes himself to be. If I keep on saying to myself that I
cannot do a certain thing, it is possible that I may end by really becoming
incapable of doing it. On the contrary, if I have the belief that I can do it,
I shall surely acquire the capacity to do it even if I may not have it at the
beginning.” (Mahatma
Gandhi) [i]
[i] Sources used:
·
“3 Ways Your Beliefs Can Shape
Your Reality” by Juliana Breines
·
“How
Our Beliefs Affect Our Lives” by Penny Parks
No comments:
Post a Comment