Programming the mind (2)   

By Jimmy Henderson 

Hons (phil) MA (psychology) FRC

   Bringing about fundamental changes to one’s mental programming will require focus and commitment, as well as the necessary skills in concentration and the application of intent or will-power. In this regard, the well-known psychiatrist Milton Eriksen believed that the correct application of language (especially emotionally-charged words), has the power to influence the unconscious mind and can even result in highly subjective or semi-trancelike states of consciousness. In this regard, research has suggested that the human will can also be strengthened over time by repeating specific words and ideas as contained in affirmations and intentions (Thompson, 1999).

Affirmations

   Affirmations can be described as positive thoughts and statements directed at self-empowerment. They are most effective when combined with emotions such as an intense desire or expectation, and need to be continuous repeated either verbally or mentally over a period of time.  

Examples of affirmations would be the following:

‘Things are getting better every day’.

‘I am fortunate and blessed’.

‘I am relaxed and at peace’

   As can be seen, affirmations are, in essence, only repetitive positive thoughts and ideas, but research suggests that they can filter through into the unconscious where they can be quite effective in challenging and even reprogramming negative self-beliefs. However, it is unlikely that affirmations by themselves could ever change the deeper core beliefs, ‘rules’ and schemas formed over many years which now regulate our levels of consciousness and perception. However, they could certainly introduce a state of psychological readiness and preparedness for the more complex processes that would be required, such as the setting of intentions, meditation and directed imagery (visualisation). 

Intentions

   In everyday life, the intentions that one consciously or unconsciously formulates in the mind become the templates for later decisions, actions and experiences. An intention is similar to an affirmation, but is more powerful in that it is a direct instruction to the unconscious mind. Unlike an affirmation, which is usually repeated over and over, an intention is stated only once, and it is this single act of pure intent and will-power that sets it apart from an affirmation.

   If applied with the correct state of mind, an intention can act like an electronic switching circuit in the brain, opening neural pathways, guiding the direction of thought and facilitating shifts in awareness or perception towards a previously-decided outcome. Being able to formulate and apply a clear and powerful intention therefore demonstrates one’s psychological readiness and preparedness for the intended experience and is more readily accepted by the unconscious mind than an affirmation.  

Setting intentions

   An intention is initially ‘set’ by expressing it out aloud, Later on, with more experience it can also be formulated in the mind. The correct state of mind for setting intentions is one which is clear of all clutter and conflicting thoughts. We should therefore be absolutely focused and the intention stated without any doubt or hesitation. The wording of the intention itself should also be unambiguous and describe exactly what situational change or mind-shift is desired. Before setting an intention we should therefore do a quick self-examination to determine if we have any concerns or hidden motives which could result in uncertainties, and remove them.   

   Once the intention has been verbally or mentally set, it should be activated by releasing it (putting it out of mind) with a powerful conviction that it will be carried out. This is very similar to the instructions described in the book ‘The Secret’ (1999). The effectiveness of the intention will depend totally on the clear and confident state of mind of the user, as well as the relationship of trust and cooperation that exists with the unconscious mind, which, as previously mentioned, is actually providing the power and impetus for the necessary shifts in consciousness and perception.

   The following are a few examples of intentions that would be useful for inner self-development:

‘I am aware of all that is around me’

‘I open my mind to higher perception’

‘I release all negative thoughts relating to myself’

If properly activated, the setting of new intentions can, over time, change unhelpful beliefs, self-imposed rules and even challenge existing schemas regulating consciousness and perception, leading to more powerful inner experiences.  

Jimmy Henderson is a metaphysician, a specialist in human behavior and a regular radio talk show guest. He is the author of a number of articles as well as two self-help book entitled ‘Multi-Dimensional Thinking’ and ‘Multi-Dimensional Perception’ which are available at Exclusive Books and on  Amazon.com and Kalahari.com

www.jimmyhendersonbooks.com