Thinking is a Superpower

I think a lot and a lot and a lot. I used to hate it, and sometimes I still do, but I'm starting to realize how much of a superpower and blessing it is to have an analytical brain. It allows me to see things from different perspectives, think of various possibilities, and continuously have new ideas. I used to view this analytical way of thinking as a detriment, but that's only because I use this thinking in the wrong ways. I need to focus my thinking on what is fruitful and beneficial. I've been focusing my thinking on why and how people feel about me. What I can change about myself to appeal to others and to be more liked, not realizing that I need to change the focus of my thinking rather than the thinking itself. I don't need to appeal to everyone. I don't need to be liked by everyone, and I especially don't need to be liked by people who may not even like themselves. That isn't meant as an insult, but rather an observation because I don't always like myself either. However, I notice that the moments when my self-love dwindles are when I view myself from the perspective of others. I don't need to become a mold that adapts to the likes of every person I encounter. I don't like everyone, so how can I expect everyone to like me? I think it really isn't the desire to be liked by everyone, but feeling overwhelmed by the number of people who don't like me. The number increase makes me feel like there's a significant flaw in my character or my personality, and there might be, but I need to focus on the perspective from which I am looking for flaws. I also need to consider my intentions for improvement. I am trying to improve to gain approval, rather than to actually become a better person, and that's the problem. I begin to internalize the criticisms and opinions of people whose opinions I don't even value. I have to remind myself that I cannot take the opinions from people whom I don't value and who dislike me. If it is a common trait that multiple people dislike, then yes, consider growing in that area. However, you also have to consider projection and just incompatibility as reasons for these criticisms. It is important to take criticisms from individuals, but it is also important to evaluate their intentions and the character of the person these criticisms are coming from. Intentions are so important. Don't forget that! Negative thoughts will never lead to a positive life. Prioritize your thinking on thoughts that benefit and uplift you!