Most of the self-help books on the market discuss the role of negative thinking in one's life. That's because it is a central issue in creating any type of lasting change. You can have all the support in the world, all the best ideas, and all the advantages life has to offer, but if that inner voice in your head tells you you're not good enough or don't have what it takes, this will be the deciding factor on your level of success and failure.
How many times have you used the word "should", "can't" or "have to" in your daily dialogue? Most people use them, but if they seem to occur frequently, then odds are you're in a pattern where you've relinquished your free will and choice and rather, are letting the outside world dictate what you can and can't do.
Negative thinking puts you in an "either/or" situation where everything is black or white. Something can't happen unless A, B, and C falls into place. You may also think that if some people don't like an idea of yours that it means no one will and so you should abandon it. Such a thought process places undo stress in one's life because it often isn't about having everything you need, but in having the most important facets in order to bring the end result you want.
I recently read a copy of "Guideposts" that featured an article on Thomas Kinkade, (a.k.a. the "Painter of Light"). Having been a fan of his work for years, I always find it interesting to read that in "traditional" art circles, his paintings aren't seen as much. They don't measure up to Monet, Rembrandt, or Van Gogh and as such, aren't good enough to be hung in traditional museums and galleries. The article I read even discussed the fact that Thomas's college art teachers frowned upon his work. This was the time when inner turmoil and angst was being produced on canvas and so a pretty picture of a cottage or stream wasn't looked upon favorably.
Even though Thomas believed in his work, being in this negative environment began to make him doubt himself. He eventually left the art program he was in and as most people known, went on to be extremely successful; with his work shown in his own galleries across the country. People are drawn to his mix of uplifting art and Biblical verses because it brings them joy and peace; Thomas's ultimate goal in the first place.
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