Your mind is the control centre of your life. Every thought that enters it either builds
you up or breaks you down. The problem? Most people let their thoughts run
unchecked, leading to self-doubt, fear, and stagnation. But here’s the truth: You have
the power to take control, says Jacqueline van Rooijen, Transformation Coach and
Director at Ycagel.
Why Thought Control Matters
“Your thoughts shape your reality. Neuroscience proves that repeated thoughts
rewire your brain- either strengthening confidence or reinforcing anxiety,” she
explains. “Left unchecked, negative thoughts spiral into self-sabotage, crystallise into
limiting beliefs, and drain your mental resources, causing decision fatigue. But when
you take control, you build resilience, clarity, and unstoppable confidence.”
Van Rooijen shares 5 hacks to help you reshape your thought patterns:
1. Become the Observer of Your Mind
Your thoughts are not facts—they’re just mental noise. Catch them before they
take root:
Ask:
Does this thought serve me?
Would I say this to a friend?
If not, let it go. You’re in control, not your thoughts.
2. Challenge Negative Narratives
Your inner dialogue can either propel you forward or hold you back. The next time
doubt creeps in, flip the script:
Instead of: “I’m not good enough.”
Say: “I’m constantly growing, learning, and levelling up.”
Reframe fear with logic. Most of what we worry about rarely becomes reality – so
stop living as if it will.
3. Guard Your Mental Inputs
What you feed your mind fuels your thinking. Audit your environment:
Ditch negative news and toxic people.
Surround yourself with growth-minded individuals.
Read, listen, and consume content that inspires and sharpens you.
Your inputs determine your mindset—choose wisely.
4. Use Thought Filters
Not every thought deserves your energy. The Three-Second Rule:
When a limiting thought arises, pause – ask: “Is this helpful?”
If not, replace it with a truth-based thought.
Example: “I can’t do this” → “I will take one step at a time and figure it out.”
Train your mind to default to empowerment.
5. Speak Affirmation Over Yourself
Your words create your reality. Say:
“I am built for success.”
“I have everything I need to win.”
“Challenges make me stronger.”
Your subconscious believes what you consistently reinforce – so program it for
victory.
“Your mind will either drive you toward success or off a cliff—it depends on who's in
control. When you master your thoughts, you master your life. Remember, you
determine your mental landscape – take the wheel and steer toward greatness,” van
Rooijen concludes.
ENDS
WORD COUNT: 428
About Jacqueline van Rooijen. Jacqui is a 360* Sales Enablement Specialist O2O //
Digital Strategist // Transformational Speaker.
On Behalf of:
Jacqueline van Rooijen
Director at Ycagel
Transformation Coach
Disseminated by:
Thulisile Mhlongo
PR Account Executive: Say Watt
074 836 9170