How we experience our lives and the quality of our life is based on what we focus on. The truth is, in our daily lives, there are many external factors that is beyond our control, these could be good things or bad things, and we don’t have much of a choice but to face and go through them. However, what we can control is our reaction towards these events. We have a choice to react positively or negatively, and all the reactions (by choice or subconscious choice) and decisions that were previously made has brought us where we are today. In other words, the only thing that truly is within our control is our state of mind
So how do we take charge? How do we make sure that our state of mind is positive, contributes to our wellbeing and puts us in a better position in the longer term?
According to Tony Robbins’ book, Awaken the Giant Within, the answer to this is by asking yourself better questions. Quality questions create a quality life, and these questions help you direct your focus to positive emotions and as a result, gives you positive reactions towards the things that you do. The 7 morning power questions that I am about to elaborate on is also developed by Tony Robbins, full credit goes to him
Another thing that I remember fondly, taught by my aunt who is the motivational speaker, trainer and owner of Ashton Training Academy, is this – Where focus grows, energy flows. You put more effort and energy into where you put your focus at, so be very careful to focus on the correct things
Now, to the 7 power questions to start your day off with. If you’re facing any difficulties answering these questions, just add the word ‘could’ (e.g. What could I be happy about in my life now?)
Question 1: What am I happy about in my life now?
What about that makes me happy? How does that make me feel?
Starting your day with happy thoughts puts you in a better mental state to face your day
Question 2: What am I excited in my life right now?
What about that makes me excited? How does that make me feel?
Feeling excited reminds you about the things you are passionate about in life, and passion is a strong driver and motivator for you to take action. If you can’t seem to find something you are excited in your life right now, this could also serve as a sign for you to re-evaluate some of the things you are doing.
Question 3: What am I proud about in my life right now?
What about that makes me proud? How does that make me feel?
When we are demotivated, it’s good to be reminded of what we have achieved and how far along we have come since the beginning
Question 4: What am I grateful about my life right now?
What about that makes me grateful? How does that make me feel?
To me, gratitude about the blessings I have in life is the foundation of all positive emotions. If you practice gratitude, it will lead to all sorts of positive emotions such as happiness, excitement, enjoyment, and more!
Question 5: What am I enjoying most in my life right now?
What about that do I enjoy? How does that make me feel?
Life is not just about work, and enjoyment does not necessarily require much money or is in the form of a big vacation. This question trains your mind to look for pleasure in the smaller things, such as a nice conversation with a friend, a good cup of coffee, or even the satisfaction you get from putting together an awesome Spotify playlist
Question 6: What am I committed to in my life right now?
What about that makes me committed? How does that make me feel?
Remind yourself of your goals and what you have committed yourself to on a daily basis. The more you look at your goals, the more your actions will steer towards them, whether consciously or sub-consciously
Question 7: Who do I love? Who loves me?
What about that makes me loving? How does that make me feel?
Everyone needs a little loving. No matter what we think, there will always be people out there that loves us. We are never alone. Oh, and remember, you can love yourself too
These questions are designed to shift your focus to a better mental state, and at the same time also create awareness of the things that are most important in life. By asking ourselves these questions on a daily basis, we can begin to change our habitual perception patterns for the better
So let’s ask quality questions for a better life together
What are your thoughts? I’d love to hear from you if you have ideas for a more positive life!
