The Energy of Our Thoughts (and the Power of Gratitude)

“A thought is an intellectual and vital energy, and it can be either a curse or a blessing, depending on its quality.”  Lucy A. Mallory, Writer

Everything begins with a thought.  Whether you're building a monument that will be seen by many, or doing a good deed that will be seen by no-one, both acts originate with an initial thought.  This is exciting, but it's also sobering, as it forces us to examine the quality of our thoughts. 
 
There's plenty of debate regarding just how much our thoughts influence and shape our circumstances.  But there's no debate around the fact that our thoughts do indeed have influence.  This is self-evident – thoughts lead to words and actions, which in turn have all sorts of consequences.

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What is the general trajectory of your thought process on a daily basis?  Are your thoughts more positively oriented, in that you seek out solutions, openings, and opportunities?  Or do your thoughts tend to lean more on the negative side, expecting and assuming the worst?  Do your thoughts reflect hope and optimism?  Or does there tend to be more cynicism and pessimism?
 

The link between thoughts and outcomes is obvious.

The link between thoughts and outcomes is obvious.  If you're thoughts are stuck in a closed-off, negative place that isn't hopeful about the future, you could easily wind up disregarding a wonderful opportunity that passes your way, simply because you can't recognize it for what it is.  This quickly becomes a vicious loop, as your experience seems to validate your thought patterns, and the process repeats over and over again.  Over time, this can become hugely detrimental and prevent you from achieving the things you truly want.
 
Fortunately, we have control over our thoughts and we can introduce new, healthier thoughts at any time.  A great starting place for cultivating healthy thoughts is to focus on gratitude.  The practice of gratitude is widely encouraged across cultures, across religions, and has been for centuries.  This is because it truly does have an impact.  Gratitude doesn't heal every ill and erase every problem.  However, thoughts of gratitude can shift your awareness, your frame of mind, and your perspective.  As a result, everything around you looks a little different, and you're better equipped to deal with it all.
 

What type of energy are you creating with your thoughts? 

Consider your thoughts as intellectual and vital energy.  What does that mean to you?  What type of energy are you creating with your thoughts?  In terms of leading you in the direction that you truly want to go in life, are your thoughts helping you or hindering you? 

Why not start shifting your thoughts today and generating some constructive energy, by taking a moment to reflect on something that you're truly grateful for.