"他说，这都是你脑子里的，然后我说，一切都是，但他没明白。"

This quote really drives home the idea that our perception of reality, our thoughts, and our feelings all originate in our minds. It’s about understanding that everything we experience is filtered through our mental lens. This isn't to say that external events don't matter, but rather that the way we interpret these events is what shapes our reality.

Historically, many thinkers have toyed with this concept. Consider philosophers like Descartes with his famous "I think, therefore I am," which underscores the primacy of thought in defining existence. Or, think of the principles behind cognitive-behavioral therapy, where changing one's thought patterns is seen as a way to improve emotional well-being. This idea that our internal world defines our external experience isn’t new, but it’s still incredibly relevant.

Let’s dive into a real-life example. Imagine someone who’s just lost their job. Two people might respond to this situation completely differently. One person could see it as the end of the world. They might think, "I’ll never find another job, I’m a failure." These thoughts lead to feelings of despair and anxiety. Another person might see the same event and think, "This is a tough break, but it’s also a chance to find something better." This perspective can lead to feelings of hope and motivation. The external event is the same, but the internal interpretation changes everything.

This wisdom can be applied practically in everyday life. Start by noticing your thoughts—really paying attention to them. When you catch yourself thinking negatively, pause and challenge those thoughts. Ask yourself if they’re really true, or if there might be another way to look at the situation. It’s not about being relentlessly positive, but rather about being realistic and fair to yourself.

To illustrate, let’s say you’ve got a big presentation at work and you’re terrified. You think, "I’m going to mess this up. Everyone will think I’m incompetent." Those thoughts lead to anxiety and stress. But what if you catch that thought and challenge it? Ask yourself, "Is it true that I’ll mess up? Haven’t I done well in the past? Even if I make a mistake, does that define my worth?" By reframing your thoughts, you can change your emotional response and approach the presentation with more confidence.

Consider a story: Jane and Mark are both new parents. It’s their first child and they’re overwhelmed. Jane constantly thinks, "I’m failing as a mom. I can’t do this." These thoughts make her anxious and unhappy. Mark, on the other hand, thinks, "This is hard, but I’m learning every day. Mistakes are part of the process." Mark’s approach keeps him calmer and more open to learning. The difference in their experiences isn’t about the external reality—they both face the same challenges—it’s about how they interpret and respond to those challenges.

So, next time you find yourself spiraling into negative thoughts, remember: it’s all in your head. And that’s powerful, because it means you have the ability to change it. By shifting your mindset, you can transform your experience of reality. And that’s something worth embracing.