
When asked How are you? or How’s your day going? many persons answer by saying “not too bad.” In most cases, their reply is often automatic, with little or no awareness about what they’re telling the world or themselves. Although we may consciously interpret their reply to mean “I’m fine,” or “good;” that’s not the actual message that the subconscious mind hears.
Whenever we think or make a statement with not, never, and no, our mind dismisses the term of negation and focuses on what follows. This function is hardwired into our brain; it’s just the way that it works. If you doubt this could be true, please consider the following:
- Do not think of an pink elephant (You just thought of an pink elephant).
- Never think of a dancing Chihauhau. (You just thought of a dancing Chihauhau).
- No stress (You just reaffirmed stress).
- Not too bad (Your subconscious mind heard bad).
- No problem (Your subconscious mind didn’t hear “it’s okay;” it heard problem).
- No onions (Your server at the restaurant just heard onions, and now has to remember them–so as not to place them on your burger).
My point is related to our understanding of the Law of Attraction; which is basically stated as that which is like is attracted. It’s important to remember that our essential nature is that of divine co-creators. We’ve been conditioned to believe that we’re only flesh and bones; but we’re so much more! We’re the highest expression of the Absolute; and as such, we create in the same manner as our Creator. We use thoughts, words, focus, and actions to create what has been impressed into our mind. If we desire to have days that are not too bad, we don’t need to change anything; but if we desire to raise the bar and strive for GREAT days, and a WONDERFUL life, I suggest the following changes. So, once again, with feeling: How are you?
- I’m great, thanks!
- Excellent!
- Fine, absolutely fine!
I’m not suggesting that we should become automatons, repeating answers that aren’t always true. When we’re feeling depressed or frustrated, it may be appropriate to express our feelings and move on. But, if we’re using expressions such as not too bad as space fillers, rather than a reflection of how we’re actually feeling, it’s to our advantage to use a space filler that leads to better results. The subconscious mind is incapable of discernment or reason; nor can it interpet nuance, inflection, or sarcasm. It simply accepts content and meaning literally; at face value, 24/7.
Our choice of words is directly related to the quality of our lives. Please contemplate the following illustration: Imagine that you’ve been given the opportunity to be an instructor to an up-and-coming golf star. You’ve been entrusted with teaching him the intricacies of the game; and it’s been strongly implied that your job depends on the outcome of a certain tournament. You know that if he wins, you win. You also realize what happens if he loses.
An hour before the tournament is due to begin, you take the promising young player aside, look him squarely in the eyes, and deliver the following pep talk: “I know that you’re probably feeling a tremendous degree of pressure right now, which is understandable. I just want to give you some last-minute pointers. First: Do not, whatever you do, overshoot on Hole Three. Second: Don’t catch that gaping bunker on Hole Seven. Third: Never, I repeat never, lose your focus whenever you’re putting! Got it?“
With what you’ve understood about words and the manner in which the subconscious mind functions, what instructions do you think the subconscious heard prior to tee off? Right! Overshoot on Hole Three; catch the bunker on Hole Seven; and lose your focus while putting! I think you also realize that your career as a golf instructor ended the next day! The good news is that we can use this knowledge to our benefit; in situations that have far more important consequences at stake:
- “I am vibrantly healthy;” versus “I am not sick.”
- “I am creating great prosperity,” versus “I am not poor.”
- “I am going to ace this exam,” versus “I am not going to fail.”
The words that we emphasize through habitual use make a world of difference. Our subconscious mind is always listening, always present, always ready to act. It’s in our best interest to give it something great to overhear. By the way, “I’m great.” Thanks for asking. (If you’re curious about learning more about the law of attraction, I offer more information in my YouTube video entitled The Matthew Effect.)
Dare to dream (and care for one another).
With heartfelt regards,
Art
Copyright © – 2026 – R. Arthur Russell
P.S. Please share this article if you enjoyed it. If you’d like to view my latest book (This Taste of Flesh and Bones), press here. My YouTube videos can be found at Think2wice@I-Am-Aware. May the content of either or both help you along your spiritual journey. “Thank You” & “Note to Publishers” 🙏🏻🧡






