How much of your time do you spend thinking each day during your waking hours? Most likely, at least 99% of the time. But how much of that thinking is productive?

There are two basic types of thinking: productive and unproductive. Productive thinking helps motivate us, reach our goals, and create the life we desire. On the other hand, much of the unproductive thinking we do is actually harmful to our happiness, contentment, and success.

What types of thoughts do you find yourself spending the most time on?

Consider how unproductive these types of thinking are:

1. Thinking about the past in a way that creates regret. This is a common type of negative thinking that has no positive benefits. Remembering that time you embarrassed yourself in high school or had a huge argument with your partner only serves to lower your mood and put you into an unresourceful state.

● The solution is simple. Catch yourself as soon as possible when you’re thinking about the past and redirect your attention to something more positive.

1. Thinking about the future in a way that creates worry. We also tend to look at the future and imagine the worst. We might only look ahead 10 seconds and imagine being rejected by the person we’re approaching. Or we might look ahead further and imagine our yet non-existent business failing.

● The solution: Notice that you’re thinking unproductively and bring your mind back to the present.

1. Daydreaming in a non-directed way. It’s fun to daydream. Who wouldn’t like to imagine spending time with a movie star, being able to fly, or other fanciful thoughts? Most of this type of thinking isn’t productive. It only wastes time.

● Why are you daydreaming? Are you bored? Stressed? Is it just random behavior? Think of better ways to spend your time when you notice that you’re daydreaming.

1. Focusing on problems rather than solutions. Focusing on problems creates stress and fails to address the issue in a useful way. Focusing on solutions puts you in a much more resourceful state and provides a chance for success.

● Notice when you’re focusing on problems and start thinking about possible solutions for them.

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