We have all heard the social definition of insanity, doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result.  We have all experienced and will continue to experience times of insanity until we become aware/mindful of our actions, then on to something else, the circle of life.

Those around you don’t seem to understand the emotional struggle you have with insanity.  You don’t need medication but you also can’t just decide to change it magically, at least for some.  Your ability to work at and be successful in other aspects of your life would cause one to conclude that you can be successful at anything you put your mind to.  Sadly that is not the case for someone struggling with insanity.  You have all the knowledge, tools, tips and tricks and even support to help but insanity continues to prevail.

So what now?

How do you get beyond insanity to productivity?  Changing your thought process can be a challenge, especially when you’re trying to be productive.  All of us will experience struggles with productivity in our lives from time to time but if you apply these strategies you will discover success comes with controlling what you think and move you beyond the cycle of insanity.

Your level of productivity is not just about how much you work, but also about what’s going on in your mind.  The level of productivity you actually achieve is dependent upon how you think.  Your mind can be your best friend, your worst enemy, or somewhere in between when you want to put forth your greatest work effort.  If you want to move beyond insanity to productivity, you can start by implementing the following strategies:

1. Set a clear, achievable, specific goal. In your mind, tell yourself, “I will write a chapter today for my book” or “I workout for 30 minutes after work.”  Establish a productivity goal for yourself to move you beyond insanity.
2. Avoid feeling overwhelmed. Instead of allowing those feelings of “I can’t do it,” or “This is too much to do,” refrain from overthinking.  Instead, tell yourself, “This is a lot to do, but I am up for the challenge,” or “In due time, I’ll get this work done.”
3. Acknowledge your progress. No matter how much or how little work you complete towards your goal give yourself credit for it.  Focus on the positive and remember that you are that many steps closer to completing your goal.  Make up your mind to focus on what you have accomplished rather than on what you have yet to do.
4. Block out the negative vibes. The negative thoughts will be there as long as you live.  Practice replacing them with positive ones and remember garbage in garbage out.  Fill your thoughts and space with things and people who challenge, uplift and bring positive vibes to your life.
5. Practice meditation. It is important to be intentional about meditating on God’s word consistently.  Find a time that works for you and your schedule and practice not only reading God’s word but sitting quietly and listening with your spirit.  Meditating regularly can help you to live a calmer life, gives you the strength to make it through the tough spots and the affects of overwhelming circumstances are less.

Achieving the level of productivity you want is dependent upon you deciding to leave insanity in the past.  Your mindset and thoughts make all the difference when it comes to accomplishing what you hope to achieve.  So decide to move from insanity to productivity.  When you recognize the results you can achieve, it will be easier to make a consistent effort to alter your focus, change your feelings, and become more productive.

“Nobody can change your mind.  You must take that responsibility all by yourself.”  ~Anonymous