Hi, this is Monique Rhodes. Welcome to the In Your Right Mind podcast, where we’re learning how to be happier by working with our minds. If you’d like to see how happy you are and explore ways to increase your happiness, visit howhappyami.com and take the quiz. I hope I can help you get happier—because that’s my superpower.
One of my students recently came to me, struggling with the negative impact of the stories she encountered in the news. She shared how these stories filled her mind with distress and brought her down. This is such an important topic because every day, we’re surrounded by stories. Stories are everywhere—in conversations, on social media, in the news, and even within our own minds.
On the surface, these stories might seem harmless—whether it’s a piece of news, a tweet, a viral post, or a memory replaying itself. But stories are not passive. They shape us in ways we don’t always realize. Beneath the surface, they work to alter the way we see the world and our place within it. The stories we consume don’t just inform us—they transform us. They seep into our consciousness, influencing our thoughts, beliefs, and feelings. More importantly, they shape our sense of possibility. They become the lens through which we interpret others’ actions and make our choices.
This is why it’s crucial to pay attention to the stories we let in and the ones we choose to tell. If you spend hours scrolling through social media or news feeds filled with negativity, sensationalism, or comparison, you might think you’re just staying informed. But those stories don’t stay on the screen—they creep into your thoughts and shape how you perceive the world. If your feed is filled with stories about division, betrayal, or despair, it’s easy to feel like that’s all there is. Without realizing it, you may become more cynical, distrustful, or hopeless.
The good news is that you have a choice. If you intentionally engage with stories of kindness, resilience, and possibility, your perspective begins to shift. These stories remind you that amidst the chaos, there is also beauty, connection, and hope. They expand your sense of what’s possible and invite you to see the world as a place worth engaging with.
I’m not suggesting we ignore reality or avoid the challenges of the world. Difficult truths are important to acknowledge. But there’s a difference between staying informed and being consumed. The key question isn’t whether to engage with hard truths, but how much space we allow them to take up and what balance we create. Do we also seek stories that inspire and uplift us?
The stories we tell ourselves are perhaps the most powerful of all. These quiet narratives often go unnoticed, yet they significantly influence us. They’re stories about who we are, what we’re capable of, and how the world works. Are you telling yourself stories of strength, growth, and possibility? Or are you stuck in narratives of limitation, fear, or failure?
Imagine constantly telling yourself, “I’m not good enough,” or “The world is a tough, unfair place.” Over time, these stories harden into beliefs, shaping your choices and interactions. Conversely, empowering narratives like “I can handle this” or “The world is full of opportunities” create a foundation for resilience and growth. These stories influence how you navigate challenges and pursue your goals.
This isn’t just metaphorical—it’s how the brain works. Neuroscience shows that the stories we engage with create neural pathways. The more we engage with a narrative, the stronger those pathways become, making it easier to think, feel, and act in alignment with that story. Over time, the stories we engage with don’t just reflect our reality—they create it.
So how can we be more intentional about the stories we consume and the ones we tell? Start by paying attention to what you’re reading, watching, and listening to. Ask yourself: Does this content make me feel more connected, hopeful, or empowered? Or does it leave me feeling drained, anxious, or angry? This doesn’t mean avoiding difficult truths, but balancing them. Seek out inspiring creators, writers, and platforms that expand your perspective in positive ways.
Also, consider the stories you amplify. If you’re sharing something online or in conversation, ask yourself: Does this contribute to the kind of world I want to live in? Is it thoughtful, constructive, and kind? By sharing stories aligned with your values, you create a ripple effect, shaping narratives that influence others.
Finally, challenge the stories you tell yourself. If you catch a narrative of limitation or negativity, pause and question it. Ask, “Is this story true? Is it helpful? What’s another way to see this?” Replace disempowering stories with ones that support your growth and happiness.
Make it a habit to engage with stories that highlight kindness, resilience, and possibility. Read about people overcoming challenges, watch documentaries celebrating the world’s beauty, or participate in communities like The Happiness Club, where people uplift each other. These stories remind us of what’s good and worth fighting for.
Remember, you have the power to shape the narratives around you. Share stories that inspire, uplift, and connect. Celebrate the small victories in your life and others’. The stories you tell—whether in conversation, online, or to yourself—can alter someone’s world for the better.
At its core, the stories we engage with are a choice. The world is full of raw material—beauty and hardship, connection and division. The stories you emphasize determine the reality you experience. Choose stories that remind you of your strength, inspire growth, and connect you to the world. In doing so, you become the author of your life—a life shaped by hope, resilience, and possibility.
I hope this has been helpful. As always, be kind, take care, and go gently in the world.
