Algorithms

I was reminded of the law of attraction recently when it came to algorithms.

Recently, a client told me how she had been searching for shoes for her daughter’s graduation and started receiving ads online related to shoes. We’ve probably all noticed this interest-based advertising on social media and YouTube, etc. As annoying as it is, it is very similar to “you get what you think about” patterns that we tend to create away from the computer.

You think “I’m going to have a bad day” and your focus will be on all the reasons why. You notice all the bad things that happen throughout the day. The same can be said for “I’m going to have a wonderful day”.

So what do you want to see more of?

There is an exercise that coaches give our clients to understand focus: 1. Look around the room and notice everything that is a certain color, let’s say red.

2. Now close your eyes and concentrate on the items you picked out, see where they are in the room or make a list in your mind

3. Ok, now open your eyes and look for everything that’s green.

Wait, what? how quickly can you focus your attention on the green items?

This practice of shifting perception is a good way to help refocus in a direction that will be more positive and beneficial to your life.

If you don’t want to think about a bad day, then practice focusing on things that make you happy and lift your spirits. Think about the things that make you smile, relax you or give you a reason to get to the end of the day. What are the feelings that come up? Go through your day feeling those feelings.

Often, if I have an intense day coming up, I will work on not getting too far ahead of myself. I will make sure my drive to work is pleasant by enjoying the scenery, the fresh air or some music I love and when I get to work I will focus on one task at a time and appreciate my space.

Think about what you are grateful for. That’s one of the best practices to get you out of negative thinking. Take a moment after you finish a task to breathe and celebrate the completion of it before moving on.

Create your own personal algorithm to see what you think about. You are in charge of your own perception so, whether you want to notice good or bad, shoes or colors, know that you can shift it any time you want to with practice and intention.

Make it a great day!