1. I Can Do It Later

Someday you'll write your book, study your course, meditate, or work out. However, “someday” never comes.

Upgrade: Commit to a time to begin and create a schedule with deadlines.

2. Just One

When I was trying to quit smoking, “just one won’t hurt” thinking kept me in the loop. Such thinking supports addictive and compulsive behaviors.

Upgrade: My health/finances/family/mission is more important than one fleeting pleasure.

3. Life Is Too Short

“Life is too short to suffer,” we say. However, avoiding discomfort sabotages efforts to improve our lives.

Upgrade: I can grow through this adversity, and I am strong enough to take on hard challenges.

4. What’s Wrong With Me?

Not living up to our expectations may lead to self-criticism.

Upgrade: Be kind to yourself, and let your failures be stepping stones.

5. Too Boring or Hard

Exercise, meditation, or studying can be tedious. New thinking patterns can change boring or hard to exciting.

Upgrade: I dare to take on hard things and seek creative fun in anything I do.

6. It’s All Too Much

When I’m overwhelmed, it’s too much to handle.

Upgrade: I’ll take it one step at a time and find beautiful focus in each step.

7. I’m Behind

Self-imposed expectations can cause us to feel that we’re not up to speed.

Upgrade: I’m always where I need to be.

8. I Want It Now

Instant gratification is rare. Progress takes time.

Upgrade: I will enjoy the process.

9. I’m Too Busy

Goals and intentions are worth clearing other clutter for.

Upgrade: I make time for the things that matter to me.

10. Get It Over With

When life feels like a hamster wheel, we may think we’re getting nowhere.

Upgrade: I am present and fully devoted in everything I do.

Once we become aware of our thinking patterns, we can improve them.