Recognizing the Positive: Shifting Your Focus
As fall encourages us to let go of what no longer serves us, it invites us to shift our focus from what’s not working to what brings joy and fulfillment. When we’re fixated on something, it can be challenging to release it. By directing our attention to what we want to welcome in, we can gradually retrain our minds to notice moments of gratitude and appreciation.
Our brains are wired to recognize patterns, a trait that helped our ancestors identify dangers. Focusing on challenges or negativity means we’ll see and attract more of it. If our brain doesn’t know the pattern, it may not recognize something even if it’s right in front of us. By consciously noticing positive experiences, we can open ourselves to new possibilities and create space for more fulfilling moments. This taps into neuroplasticity, allowing us to rewire our thinking and attract what we truly desire.
This phenomenon is evident in everyday experiences, like when you buy a new car and suddenly see that same model everywhere. Similarly, one summer while kayaking in the Salish Sea, my family and I were observing the beautiful sea life. At one point, my son discovered a vibrant cluster of purple and orange starfish, and suddenly, we saw them everywhere—even in places we had just been and hadn’t noticed before. This mirrors what I later read in Robin Wall Kimmerer’s Braiding Sweetgrass, where she describes a similar starfish encounter, leaving me amazed by the coincidence. This phenomenon highlights the power of focus and pattern recognition: when we tune into something, we become primed to notice it more frequently.
Steps to Recognize Positive Patterns:
Set Your Intention: Identify what you want to release and set your intention around it.
Letting Go Like a Tree: Just as trees naturally shed their leaves when there’s less light and energy, allow what no longer serves you to fade away. By shifting your focus to what you want to nurture, you create the conditions for growth and abundance.
Start Small: Look for Patterns Focus on simple joys—a smile, autumn colors, or a warm drink. Each moment counts.
Create a Mental Anchor: Choose a seasonal symbol, like a leaf or acorn, to remind you to seek the good.
Be Aware You Are Aware: Acknowledge your awareness of positivity. It’s okay not to notice something every day; the fact that you’re aware is progress.
Acknowledge and Celebrate: Pause to appreciate each positive moment. Reinforce this through gratitude.
Reflect Daily: At the end of each day, reflect on the positive moments. If you didn’t notice anything, that’s okay! Acknowledge your effort; there’s always tomorrow.
Build Over Time: As the season progresses, you’ll naturally notice more positive things. Be aware of this growth.
Reflection Prompt: What is one old habit or pattern of thinking you can let go of this fall? What new positive pattern will you choose to notice and be grateful for?
I would love to hear about your experiences as you recognize and cultivate positive patterns in your life and how they impact you. Feel free to share your stories with me at kealarobb@gmail.com
Inspiration Corner
Quote: "Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower."— Albert Camus
Thought: Autumn reminds us that letting go can reveal new beauty. As the leaves fall, appreciate what you release, knowing that each act of letting go creates space for new growth and opportunities. Embrace the quiet changes and find beauty in every transition.Edit the content in this column layout so people engage with your email.
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