Have you ever heard of a Personal Thought Review (PTR)?
It’s a simple yet transformative practice that has changed my life, and I want to share it with you.
You’ve probably seen those “year in review” summaries—whether it’s news highlights, top movies, or personal reflections. While these are insightful, I realized that reviewing my thoughts could be even more powerful.
What is a Personal Thought Review?
A PTR involves reflecting on the thoughts you’ve had over a specific period—daily, weekly, monthly, or even yearly. This practice helps you understand how your thoughts have shaped your experiences and outcomes in different areas of your life, such as relationships, health, career, and your relationship with yourself.
My Journey with PTR
I started doing PTRs by looking back at my thoughts over the past year, focusing on different areas of my life. It was eye-opening to see the connection between my thoughts and my reality. For instance, in my art career, positive thoughts like “I love what I do” and “I’m really good at this” made me feel motivated and led to greater success. Conversely, negative thoughts like “I can’t keep up” or “Why bother?” stalled my progress.
But the most profound change came from examining my relationship with myself. Asking questions like:
"Do I like who I am?"
“Do I like the way I look?”
“Do I value my own opinion?”
"Do I live per my values?"
initially brought up some uncomfortable answers. However, it also made me realize how much my self-talk was affecting my life.
How to Conduct a Personal Thought Review
You can start doing PTRs regularly, not just at the end of the year but daily. Here’s how:
Morning Check-In: When you wake up, take a couple of minutes to set your intentions for the day. Think about what you’ve got planned and how you want it to go. What thoughts will help you get there? This doesn’t have to be a big deal—you can do it while brushing your teeth!
Evening Reflection: Before bed, take a moment to think about your day. What were your dominant thoughts? Did they help or hinder you? This isn’t about judging yourself but about understanding the connection between your thoughts and your experiences.
Benefits of a Daily PTR
1. Increased Self-Awareness: By regularly reviewing your thoughts, you become more aware of your mental patterns. This awareness is the first step toward making positive changes.
2. Improved Mental Health: Understanding the link between your thoughts and your feelings can help you manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges more effectively.
3. Enhanced Personal Growth: By identifying and nurturing positive thoughts, you can foster a growth mindset and achieve your goals more efficiently.
4. Better Relationships: Reflecting on your thoughts about others can improve your interactions and relationships by fostering empathy and understanding.
Implementing PTRs in Your Life
Start with just a few minutes in the morning and evening. Notice the patterns and see how your thoughts shape your reality. Over time, you’ll become more intentional with your thoughts, leading to a more fulfilling and successful life.
I’d love to hear if you decide to try a PTR. Let me know how it goes and what you discover about yourself.
Remember, your thoughts have the power to shape your reality. By being mindful and intentional, you can unlock your true potential and create the life you desire.
Cheers to showing up like the masterpiece you are!
lori
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