Over the years, I’ve come to realize that my thoughts create my reality. The way I think influences how I act, and how I act determines the results I see. When I told myself “I can’t,” I didn’t even try. When I told myself “I can,” my mind expanded, I figured out how, and found reasons to keep myself going.
When I shifted my thoughts, even in simple ways, my actions changed.
I’ve seen this play out time and again with clients. The one who believes in their ability to succeed will always go further than the one who doubts themselves. Our thoughts set the stage for our behavior. If we want lasting change, we must start by rewiring the way we think.
Reframing Self-Talk for Empowerment
Self-talk is powerful. I encourage my clients to listen closely to their own self-talk. If you wouldn’t say it to your best friend or your child, don’t say it to yourself. Words matter. The way you talk to yourself shapes the way you show up in the world.
Role of Gratitude and Visualization
Gratitude and visualization have been two of the most effective tools in rewiring my mind. Gratitude shifts my focus from what’s missing to what’s already here. When I’m grateful for the progress I’ve made, the body I have, and the opportunities before me, I stop chasing worthiness and start appreciating the journey.
Visualization takes it a step further. I picture myself achieving the goals I set. I imagine how it feels to move with strength and energy, to live with confidence, to show up fully for my family and clients. When I visualize the outcome, my brain begins to believe it’s possible, and my actions align with that belief.
I’ve seen clients transform their outlook simply by starting gratitude journals or spending a few minutes each day visualizing their goals. These practices remind us that our minds are just as important to train as our bodies.
SHIFTS Framework’s Influence on Mental Health
When I created the SHIFTS framework, sleep, hydration, intake, fitness, thoughts, and sunshine, I knew that thoughts needed to be a pillar. Mental health isn’t separate from physical health. The two are deeply connected.
When your sleep improves, your thoughts clear. When you’re hydrated and nourished, you think more clearly and manage stress better. When you move your body consistently, your brain benefits just as much as your muscles. And when you prioritize sunshine, you elevate your mood.
Thoughts influence every part of the SHIFTS framework, and in turn, each element supports healthier thoughts. That’s why I see SHIFTS not just as a system for physical fitness but as a whole person approach to lasting change.
Strategies for Replacing Negative Thought Patterns
Negative thought patterns are stubborn, but they can be rewired. Here are some strategies I’ve used personally and with clients:
- Awareness. The first step is catching the thought in the moment. Notice when you’re being critical or self-defeating.
- Reframe. Replace “I can’t” with “I’m learning.” Replace “I failed” with “I gained experience.” Reframing opens new possibilities.
- Affirmations. Speak truth into your day with affirmations that align with your goals: “I am capable. I am strong. I am consistent.”
- Gratitude. Write down three things you’re grateful for each day. Gratitude shifts perspective from lack to abundance.
- Visualization. Spend a few minutes each day picturing yourself succeeding. See it, feel it, and let it guide your actions.
These practices may feel awkward at first, but over time they become habits. And habits shape identity. The more you practice positive thought shifts, the more natural they become.
Practice Daily Thought Shifts
Mindset change doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a daily practice, just like movement or nutrition. Some days will feel easier, and others will challenge you. But each time you choose to shift a thought, you strengthen your mental resilience.
The most powerful part of this journey is realizing that your thoughts are not fixed. You have the power to choose them, shape them, and use them to create the life you want. Positive mindset shifts for health success are not about pretending everything is perfect. They’re about choosing thoughts that empower you to keep moving forward, even when it’s hard.
So I encourage you: practice one shift today. Replace one negative thought with a positive one. Write down one thing you’re grateful for. Visualize one goal as if you’ve already achieved it. These small shifts, practiced daily, create lasting change in your health and your life.
Want a step-by-step guide to building strength, health, and happiness that actually lasts?
My book, “Live FIT from the Inside Out“, shares my 6 SHIFTS framework (Sleep, Hydration, Intake, Fitness, Thoughts, Sunshine), simple, sustainable, empowering tools to help you reclaim your energy, confidence, and quality of life without extremes.
From honest stories to practical strategies, this book is designed to help you finally make health feel like freedom, not another chore.
Grab your copy today and start your journey toward a stronger, healthier, happier you!
Remote Coaching to Help You Achieve Longevity + Live Your Highest Quality of Life
Are you ready to make longevity and your quality of life a priority, but not sure where to start?
That’s where my remote coaching program comes in! With my program, you’ll receive:
- Customized Programming: I design a training plan tailored to your current abilities and goals.
- Weekly Coaching Cues: Get detailed feedback and tips to refine your form and progress safely.
- Movement Demonstrations: Access videos that break down each progression step-by-step.
- Accountability and Support: Stay on track with direct email and SMS support, as well as monthly consultations.
Achieving long term fitness and wellness is something I will help you master as part of a comprehensive fitness and wellness plan.
Whether you’re looking to improve strength, mobility, or overall health, my program is designed to meet you where you are and take you to the next level.
Let’s work together to help you crush your fitness goals!
Learn more about my remote coaching program: Click HERE!
And because long-term results go beyond workouts, I’ve also partnered with some of the most trusted brands in fitness and wellness to bring you powerful tools and resources that support your journey:
NZ x Spren Collab: Gold standard body composition tracking right from your phone. Read the press release →
NZ Meals powered by Territory Foods: A curated, ready-to-eat menu created by me. Order here →
NZ Nutrition App: Personalized nutrition coaching + resources to fuel your goals. Explore here →
