Strengthening Confidence, Releasing Negativity
Practices for Strengthening Inner Confidence and Releasing Negativity
In Chapter 7, The Courage to Stop Negative Thinking and Gossip, Jim Heaney invites us to notice how negative thoughts quietly undermine our peace and confidence. He explains that negative thinking and gossip are outward signs of inner unrest—patterns that reinforce fear, insecurity, and disconnection from God’s presence. By practicing awareness and gently interrupting these habits with conscious breathing and truthfulness, we begin to transform the inner dialogue itself. Heaney reminds us that real change comes through presence—by choosing peace over negativity, one moment at a time.
Read Chapter 7 – The Courage to Stop Negative Thinking and Gossip in Choosing Presence in Choosing Presence, then take a few quiet moments to reflect on these questions. Let them guide your journaling and reveal where negative thinking may be keeping you from peace.
Strengthening Confidence, Releasing Negativity
1. How does negative thinking affect my relationships, emotions, and spiritual growth?
Negative thinking creates inner conflict, damages relationships, and disconnects us from God’s peace. It reinforces fear and insecurity.
2. What role does gossip play in my life, and how does it reflect my inner state?
Gossip reflects unresolved inner negativity and a lack of self-esteem. It damages others and separates us from our true selves.
3. How can I train myself to redirect negative thoughts into positive, constructive ones?
By practicing presence, we become aware of negative thoughts and the damage they do to our inner life and can consciously choose the peace and stability of the present moment.
4. What practical strategies can I use to create healthier inner dialogue and reduce gossip?
When we practice presence consistently and stay close to the present moment a sense of calm and peace linger within us. We no longer will accept inner negative dialogue or gossip because it sabotages our peace.
5. How can the practice of presence help me develop greater inner confidence and peace?
Presence quiets the ego and negative emotions, fostering a sense of stability, love, and connection. We know through our own experience we have access to God’s Spiritual Being always.
Take the Next Steps in Presence
Ready to go deeper? These journaling questions will help you reflect on Chapter 7 of Choosing Presence and explore how letting go of negative thoughts and gossip opens the heart to peace.
Negative Thinking – Enroll in Awakening to Presence and experience how redirecting negative thinking restores your heart to the calm and clarity of God’s presence.
