The Quickest Way to Change Your Perspective
Recently I listened to the moderation of several authors via Skip Prichard. Within the panel discussion, Michael Connelly made the following statement, “You write what you read.”
The statement is a powerful one as it describes the way in which your mind relates information. It declares that what you put into your mind is what comes out. This is similar in substance to that of Charlie Jones who famously stated that, “You will be the same person tomorrow that you are today except for the people you meet and the books you read.”
What information do you consume? Who do you interact with? What types of information are you filling your mind with? As a recovering information junkie, I can assure you, there is enough data available for even the most voracious appetite.
What would you like to do more of? What goals would you like to achieve? What impact would you like to have on those around you? Your achievement of those things depends on what you are constantly placing into your mind.
Throughout today observe what you’re putting into your mind – the radio, the TV, the websites, the people and personalities. Is there a common thread? Are they negative or positive? Are they encouraging or demoralizing? Are they words to motivate, or are they words that deactivate?
Decide today that you will consume that which is good, uplifting, and encouraging. If you are willing to do that, you really will have a change of perspective.
What are some of your favorite things to do for encouragement and motivation?
20 Responses to “The Quickest Way to Change Your Perspective”
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- - 2013
For me it is all about what I read. I have found in my last couple of speaking engagements that good books and concepts are always what I come back to. I even had someone ask me for a book list. What changes me is what I read and absorb that way!
If I could read only two off your list which would you suggest?
Even though you didn’t ask me…
Best 2 books I’ve read in the past year? Derailed by Tim Irwin and Necessary Endings by Henry Cloud
Now I wish I had. I have Necessary Endings – but haven’t read it yet. I think I need to move it up my priority list.
I agree 100% – I’m continually looking for ways to read more.
Reading can take you so many places, and expose you to tremendous thought processes. I used to hate reading. Now I can’t imagine life without it! Thanks for the comment.
Your post reminds me of the old phrase, “show me your friends and I’ll show you your future.”
So true!
Great post.
All I know is the people around me, regardless of my acknowledgement or not, do exert influence on me and my attitude. I’ve chosen to invite the pure and positive. *Bad company corrupts good morals…*
“Bad company corrupts good morals…” what a wise sentence.
People make a difference…good or bad.
Great quote TC Avey. So true.
I find personal growth(reading books/blogs and listening to inspiring leadership Cd’s) and spiritual development (reading my Bible and praying) are great ways to get encouraged and motivated. I also enjoy taking walks at the beach which is always relaxing and refreshing. Wonderful post!
It’s a great way to regain momentum, or continue staying the course. Have you reflected on your journey from your personal & spiritual development from where you were?
You reminded me about the blowout sale – have you got to enjoy any of that material yet?
Thanks for the positive feedback! Wow – walking along the beach…I hope you have a way to help you not take that fore granted.
Oh, yes I have. My growth and development has changed my life completely. Most of my friends from childhood/young adult years are amazed of where I’m now at in my life.
The John Maxwell blowout, right? Yes, I got the Lessons on Leadership CD set which included 25 CDs on leadership, success, and team work. I’m able to listen to about 2 a week. Good stuff. How about you? Did you get anything?
That’s great to hear. That’s a powerful story.
We’re in the middle of adopting another child, so I wasn’t able to jump in at this time. But I’ve got a lot of backlogged books to work through – and I utilize my local library a ton. I’d love to hear about your experience with the cd’s at some point (shipping, service, presentation, style, etc). Not to mention what you learn.
For encouragement I really depend on positive re-enforcement. Either giving it or receiving it really helps with encouragement. You are so right that you write what you read and inspiration and encouragement are huge for me. I can not tell you enough how critical this is. Very great points, thanks for sharing.
Thanks for mentioning giving or receiving positive reenforcements. They go a long way regardless of which side you’re on.
I like to read positive quotes to motivate myself, It gives me a fast remedy.
Thank you for this useful article & important questions.
Quotes are a great way. My computer is lined with a few favorites on post-it notes. Thanks for the addition.