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There are three keys on a computer keyboard we should all pay close attention to if we want to better our life; they are Ctrl, Alt, Del. “Ctrl” is for Control Yourself. “Alt” is for Alter your thinking. “Del” is for Delete negativity. The phrase "Ctrl, Alt, Del" is commonly associated with rebooting a computer, but I see it as a powerful metaphor for improving our personal and business lives. If we take these three keys seriously, they can guide us toward personal growth and a more positive outlook. I think Norman Vincent Peale said it best: “Change your thoughts and you change your world.”
Control Yourself (Ctrl) – We live in a fast-paced world. There are over 252,000 new websites every day. That equates to 10,500 every hour. Change is everywhere. It’s easy to get swept away by emotions, impulses, and external pressures. The first key we need to pay attention to is “CTRL” representing Control. To be successful, self-control is critical. We all need to gain the ability to act with purpose, rather than reacting impulsively to every situation. Prioritize what truly matters and then focus on that!
Alter Your Thinking (Alt) – The second key “ALT” is for altering our mindset. The way we think shapes the way we experience the world. We must never allow negative thoughts to have the power to change our mindset. Negative or fixed thinking can limit our potential, but when we shift our perspective, we open ourselves to new possibilities. Positive thinking encourages resilience, creativity, and growth, even in the face of adversity. Changing the way we view challenges can make all the difference in achieving success and happiness; seeing every challenge as just a stepping stone to success.
Delete Negativity (Del) – The third key “DEL” is for learning to delete negativity from our lives. Or as that famous anonymous author once said - “Eliminate negativity from your life. It will never add to your happiness.” Just as a computer file can become corrupted by unnecessary or harmful data, our minds can become clouded with negative thoughts, toxic relationships, and limiting beliefs. Deleting negativity involves consciously choosing to let go of things that drain our energy or hinder our progress. It may go as far as to stop hanging around with certain friends or associates who will bring you down, hold you back, or fill your life with unnecessary drama. It’s about setting boundaries, practicing gratitude, and surrounding ourselves with positivity. I heard it once said, “The more you let go of negativity, the more peace you’ll feel.” I like that statement.
Together, these three actions—control yourself, alter your thinking, and delete negativity—can be the keys to unlocking a more fulfilling, successful, and joyful life. As American charismatic Christian author, and speaker Joyce Meyer stated, “You cannot have a positive life and a negative mind.”