Heartset

People often talk about their mindset, which is their default mental attitude or mental response to something. We talk about having a good mindset or one that holds you back. People try to change their mindset to be more adaptable to situations. Building mental flexibility is great, but I also think we should consider our heartset.

Rather than mental, this is a default emotional attitude towards life. What is your typical reaction to other people? Carefree and lackadaisical? Structured and rigid? Cautious and anxious? Bold and demanding?

Take a minute today to consider your heartset and how it affects the others around you. Your knee-jerk reactions to others can draw them in or push them away. If you find that your heart may not be as open by default as you would like, do not worry. As with mindset, you can work to expand your heartset to be more kind and welcoming.

When you interact with people today, try to pause for a second before responding. Evaluate where your heart is and decide if it is in the place you want it to be. And if not, make a change. Slowly, over time, you’ll develop new habits and come closer to the person you want to see in the world.