Transforming yourself

Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.

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Although the title of this paragraph is a quotation from the Bible, this article is not of a religious nature and can even be read by atheists without giving the slightest offense. The words were written by the Apostle Paul in his epistle to the Romans (12:2). The idea of renewing the mind can be found in many of Paul's writings. The objective is to change one's thinking for the better. Thinking positively and acquiring a kind and friendly disposition that is what Paul means. (I deliberately omit the religious objectives of Paul, if you are interested you can find them in his writings in the New Testament). In his letter to the Philippians (4:8), he sums it up in these inspiring words: Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things.

What is to be gained by such a renewing of the mind?
Happiness and unhappiness depend on the circumstances you are in, that is true for many people. But is this an absolute truth? Certainly not. It is your reaction to circumstances that makes you either happy or unhappy. If you react without thinking on what is happening around you, then you are governed by circumstances. Controlling your thoughts whatever the circumstances you find yourself in is of the utmost importance. Being in control of your thoughts enables you to make choices. For instance: someone insults you; there are several options open to you. Ignore the insult, answer in a kind manner or give a sharp reply. The first two reactions will probably ease the situation, the latter can lead to a bitter row and before you know it you might be prodded into arguments beyond your control.
The first two reactions are the result of positive thinking, the last one is most likely the result of negative thinking. Which one would you choose?
Positive thinking, as described by Paul in his letter to the Philippians, leads to a calmness of mind enabling you to feel happy even in times of adversity.

How does one renew the mind?
It is not easy to begin with. It requires a kind of spiritual struggle but the rewards are great. It consists of overcoming negative thinking. Every time a negative thought enters your mind you must reject it and replace it by its positive opponent. For instance: instead of fretting about the possibility of losing your job, think of how you can do your job better or start looking for a an other job.
If reading newspapers or watching the news on TV makes you anxious why don't you stop reading disturbing news? Read good books instead or watch informative documentaries. Don't be afraid that you would be intellectually isolated. Really important news will reach you.
A good way of overcoming negative moods is to think of things you can be grateful for, your health, your family or anything else that makes you happy. Being grateful is a perfect barrier against negative thoughts. Gratitude and negative thoughts cannot occupy the mind at the same time.
Gratitude is not a mood exclusively for religious believers. If you are an atheist are you therefor barred from feeling grateful? I think not, however if your answer is yes than you really need a renewing of the mind.