We all have beliefs that lead to thoughts we realize we are thinking. They form the foundation for our emotions, for how we live our lives. But what words are we unconsciously repeating to ourselves every day? These elusive, inner utterances also instruct the brain and body on how to feel, respond, and function in the world. To our brains and bodies, there is no difference between what we think on purpose and what we think when we aren’t paying attention.

Your thoughts either nourish or deplete each experience in your life. They allow you to engage with openness, eagerness, and wonder or with intolerance, detachment, and presumption. If you have the option (and you do) to replace a small percentage of the 95% of the daily thoughts scientists tell us are unconscious, start by directing your attention towards things that fill you with gratitude.

In gratitude…