A Choice of Thought

One day last year, after a rough week, I was ready for some pampering. So, I dropped into a neighborhood nail salon for a simple manicure.

After scouring through the endless nail polish options, I picked OPI Salmon Sand (you can see it here). It is a light neutral shade.

After her unsuccessful attempts to sell me a pedicure or spa treatment, the nail technician took one look at the color I chose and said “Not good for you, this is a color for younger ladies – better for someone in her twenties or early thirties.”

OUCH! “I AM in my early thirties;” I wanted to shout! But, I am a people pleaser so I just followed her to the nail polish and watched as she picked out a color more suitable for a woman of my, ahem, maturity.

Upon leaving, I shared the story with my mom and husband, pledging to never return to that salon. I should have also pledged to never return to that conversation. Instead, I allowed her harsh words to echo over and over in my mind for days.

Before long, my thoughts were on a runaway train headed for disaster. “Do I really look much older than I am?” “Wonder what kind of wrinkle cream I should buy?” “Maybe I should research yoga poses for better skin.”

Thankfully, one thought hit me like a ton of bricks as it pulled that train to a screeching halt. “Why am I choosing to let this one person’s rather harsh words linger so long in my brain? I have a choice here – I can choose to think about something else!” So that I did!

So often I act like a victim to my thoughts. But that is a lie. The truth is – I have a choice of thought. If a thought isn’t helpful or productive, I can choose another one.

When my mind becomes a runaway train, I’m going to stop and choose my thoughts wisely!

Do you every feel like you’re stuck on a runaway train with your thoughts? How do you apply the brakes? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.