Can Positive Thinking Really Build Confidence?

When I first saw this headline mentioned on the BBC in a round up of the newspapers, I was taken aback. My first thought was, if you think that won't work, try negative thinking! In my experience it holds true that, 'If you think you can or you think you can't, you'll probably prove yourself right'. Now, I have to confess that I don't know what the article said, but it did get me thinking.

Now, I agree that if all we do is force positive thoughts on our minds we are likely to encounter inner resistance, especially if we say them in an unconvincing inner tone. This is because our belief system will rebel if it's not aligned with the positive thought. So, for positive thoughts or affirmations to have a chance we need to work with our belief system.

I also agree that positive thoughts need to be backed up by positive action.

I believe what is even more effective is 'Resourceful Thought'. By that I mean that if you come up against a difficulty or obstacle you train yourself to ask 'Resourceful Questions'. These questions could be, 'What do I want instead of this?' and 'How can I get the result I want?. The brain is a question answering machine. Those questions tap into the brain's resources in a positive way and sooner or later it's going to come up with some helpful suggestions. There are loads of other resourceful questions and ways of creating Resourceful Thoughts.

One way to build up your power to strengthen your resourceful thinking is to work with a coach. Because coaches are objective while being supportive they are not caught up in the emotion and funnel vision we experience when we face challenges. So, they are able to take the conversation with you in resourceful directions.

The directory of life coaches and www.lifecoach-directory.org.uk will help you find a coach near you. The Life Coach Directory only allows qualified and insured coaches to have a place on their website.

Also check out my website at www.buildingselfconfidence.co.uk for coaching on self-esteem, relationship, career, confidence and presenting.

Positive thinking can be helpful. Resourceful thinking is even more powerful in helping us to create the happier, healthier and wealthier lives we really want.