In part 1 of this series, I discussed overcoming self-limiting beliefs with the use of affirmations.

When I first talk with a new client, I am very interested in understanding their goals. I typically ask questions such as, “What are your goals for our work together?”, “When the project is complete, what will your space look like and what will it feel like to be in it?”, and “How will we know that we successfully completed this project?”

All too often, I get answers to these questions stated in the negative context…

* I don’t want to be overwhelmed.

* It won’t look like a tornado just came through.

* I don’t want to be spending so much time dealing with the clutter.

* I won’t be arguing with my boss all of the time.

My response is always the same. “That describes what you don’t want, now tell me what you want.” The client then creates his/her responses in a positive light and I now hear statements of “I want to feel peaceful in my office.”

The positive statements are much more helpful in reaching one’s goals. We can then focus on what is desired as opposed to what is not desired. The energy around the project changes and we can really rally around the wonderful benefits that will be achieved.

Next time you are asked a question about your goals, describe what you want!