We always extract meaning from every experience. Then, according to the meaning we create, we label the experience as good, bad or indifferent.

Notice that the experience in and of itself is not good or bad until we decide which it is for us.

You may have heard this quote from Shakespeare’s Hamlet; “there is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so.”

When we extract meaning from an experience, we use it to confirm our current beliefs about us, about others, or how the world works. (‘That always happens!’ … Does it really?)

If you are not getting what you want, confirming your current beliefs will just keep you not getting what you want.

So look at experiences you have had, like missing the train, or having an argument, or getting praised for a good job, and notice what meanings you extracted.

It’s your choice to accept those meanings as true, or wonder what other meanings could be true instead, and thus challenge your beliefs and open the door to change.

You don’t have to go through the door, but it’s nice to have the option

This sort of thinking plays a major role in our levels of stress, so if you have stress in your life, have a look at the beliefs behind stress, and what you can do about them.

My best wishes, Paul
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