3 Ways to Overcome Undesirable Thoughts

Question

How do I overcome undesirable fantasy thoughts? It makes me away from God. Please guide me. Thank You.

—Siddharth Patel, India

Answer

Dear Siddharth,

It is difficult to overcome undesirable thoughts directly. The more attention you give to your unwanted thoughts the more energy you give them. Better to avoid the things that awaken the unwanted thoughts and, most importantly, deliberately and consistently fill your mind with other desirable thoughts.

1. Read uplifting material

Read scriptures or books, like Autobiography of a Yogi, that are full of inspiration; or biographies of great men and women; or scientific subjects that elevate the mind. Avoid books, magazines, or internet sites that draw you into your undesirable fantasies.

2. Chant or practice japa

Spend time chanting or doing japa everyday. If you give yourself, mind and heart, to the inspiration of a chant in the morning, you will find that it keeps “playing” in your mind throughout the day. The high vibration of that spiritualized chant will help keep your thoughts high-minded throughout your day. Or, practice japa by steadily and inwardly repeating a mantra throughout the day such as “Aum Guru” will similarly keep your mind occupied with high-vibration thoughts.

3. Meditate

Meditation is the key to lasting inner change. When you feel God’s presence in your heart, making changes in your inner and outer behavior becomes much easier. Make a sincere effort to go deep and still in meditation and you will find God’s uplifting vibration carrying you along throughout your day.

Warm regards,
Puru (Joseph) Selbie