“Here’s the problem. Most people are thinking about what the don’t want in their lives and they are wondering why it shows up over and over again.” – J. Assaraf
Did you see it? If not, look at the picture again. Ahhh, now you see it! So here’s my question: Did you focus on the first math problem (which does have the wrong answer) or the other nine that are correct? Something similar to this was posted on Instagram by a teacher who was using it as a teachable moment for his class. His students laughed when he displayed the picture, and quickly brought the error to the teacher’s attention. However his follow-up question confused them, “Nine of the ten problems you see in that picture are correct. Why did you only focus on the problem that had the wrong answer? What about the other nine that were correct?” He then used the problem to share a lesson that considered the importance of not only identifying what is wrong, but equally if not more important, seeking that which is correct, that which is right.
By right, I’m not taking a political perspective. Rather I am making a choice to discover and focus on the good things, the positives, the things that are going well for me and for those with whom I interact. In fact, it has enabled me to live the self-fulfilling prophecy; behaving and performing in a manner consistent with my own expectations. It has also enabled me to grow through relationships with other like-minded individuals who have become a part of my life. Like me, they focus on possibilities, on the positives. What brought us together? Rhonda Byrne would call it, “The Law of Attraction”
Published in 2007, Byrne’s book, The Secret became a worldwide best-seller, with sales of over 30 million copies and translations into 50 languages. Byrne’s message finds its basis in the works of many who went before her, including Napoleon Hill and Norman Vincent Peale. Simply put, the secret to a happy successful life is to be found in The Law of Attraction; a concept that proposes that the energy and thoughts we put out into the universe attract similar energies or experiences back to us. In other words, if we focus on positive thoughts and intentions, we will attract positive outcomes. Interestingly, the Bible shares the same suggestion: “And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” (Matthew 21:22).
While there is no scientific evidence to support the Law of Attraction as a universal law of life, incorporating it into your life can lead to positive changes. Six simple steps can help you get started:
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Embrace a Positive Mindset: The Law of Attraction focuses on positive thoughts and affirmations that can cultivate a more constructive outlook on life.
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Set Clear Goals: The Law of Attraction emphasizes the importance of setting clear and specific goals. When we envision and believe in these goals, we become more motivated to work towards achieving them.
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Visualize: Visualization can help reinforce positive beliefs and intentions. It can also help individuals vividly imagine themselves accomplishing their desired outcomes.
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Gratitude and Appreciation: Expressing gratitude for what one already has is considered an essential aspect of the Law of Attraction. Gratitude is believed to attract more positive experiences into one’s life.
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Take Inspired Action: While the Law of Attraction emphasizes positive thinking, it also encourages individuals to take inspired action towards their goals. Positive thinking alone is not enough.
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Mindfulness and Awareness: Practitioners of the Law of Attraction are more mindful of their thoughts, feelings, and reactions. This awareness can help individuals recognize and change negative patterns.
Among those (I include myself) who believe in The Law of Attraction, there is general agreement that aligning thoughts, emotions, and actions with positive intentions, can attract positive experiences and opportunities into our lives. Will it improve your life? The answer to that question largely depends on your perspectives and experiences. However, regardless of whether you believe in the Law or not, some of its core principles, such as maintaining a positive mindset, setting clear goals, and expressing gratitude, align with widely accepted self-improvement practices, and that’s not a secret!
Embrace the Secret
Embrace the Challenge.