Self-reflective questions can lead to amazing levels of creativity and awareness. However, questions must compete with other internal chatter like limiting beliefs, negative self-talk, and judgments.

On a bad day, you might have little or no control and spiral into unproductive ruminations. It takes both focus and practice to sprinkle in thoughtful, genuinely curious questions to shift your perspective.

Replacing negative thoughts with kind, focused questions can deliver amazing benefits. Here are a few:

Possibilities Emerge

Perhaps you struggle to make healthy food choices (I know I do!). The internal conversation might include self-criticism or frustration. When that comes up, try asking a question like, “What options do I have to make a healthier food choice?” This question invites exploration. May you hunt for a yummy healthy breakfast recipe, or you realize you have too many tempting items in the pantry. Feeling bad or depressed is replaced by viable solutions.

Energy Shifts

As your mind wanders without a focused question, you deplete both your physical and mental resources. The best way to stop this unproductive brain drain is to ask yourself a question that will spur you into positive action like, “What can I do right now to be loving towards myself?” Maybe this inspires you to take a walk in your garden or take some deep breaths. In this space, you rejuvenate and rebalance your energy.

Open Your Mind

Seeking a situation from a narrow perspective is a common challenge. Questions lubricate your brain, opening new channels of thinking. For example, if you are having a hard time managing your time, you might berate yourself. Or you might settle for a chaotic life. Neither are great options. A better choice would be a question like, “What is the most effective strategy I’m willing to employ to manage my time better?” It might occur to you that you have a much better day when you use a prioritized list. Now you are focused on what works.

Self-reflective questions stop you from uncontrolled negative thinking. Coming up with questions and giving yourself permission to generate an answer is a re-set. Now you can look at your situation objectively and become your own best resource rather than your own worst enemy.