What a Fish Can Teach Us About Thinking

Discover the Hidden Power of Becoming Aware of Your Thoughts

Imagine a fish swimming in the ocean. Its entire life is spent in water, yet it doesn’t even notice it. The water is invisible to the fish because it’s constant, always there, shaping its every moment. The fish isn’t aware of water; it simply exists within it.

Now think about your thoughts. They’re like the water surrounding the fish—constantly, always shaping how you see and experience the world. But how often do you notice them? Most of us go through life unaware of the thoughts running through our minds, much like the fish in water.

This lack of awareness can trap us. Negative thoughts, old beliefs, or unhelpful patterns often control us without our knowledge. For example, you might think, “I’m not good enough,” or “This will never work.” These thoughts might feel automatic, like facts of life, but they’re not—they’re just habits of the mind.

When we ignore our thoughts, we lose control of our emotions, reactions, and decisions. It’s like drifting in a current without realizing there’s a way to steer the boat.

The good news is that, unlike the fish, we can become aware of our “water.” We can learn to observe our thoughts, understand them, and even change them with a little effort. When we do, we unlock the power to shape our lives intentionally rather than being swept along by unseen forces.

Here are five simple tips to start increasing your thought awareness:

1. Pause and Reflect: During the day, ask, “What am I thinking right now?” This helps you catch the mental currents at work.

2. Journal Daily: Write down your thoughts at the end of the day. Seeing them on paper can reveal patterns you didn’t notice before.

3. Practice Mindfulness: Spend a few minutes each day focusing on your breath or sensations, allowing you to notice thoughts without judgment.

4. Label Your Thoughts: When a thought arises, label it: “This is worry” or “This is self-criticism.” Labeling creates distance.

5. Challenge Negative Beliefs: When you spot a negative thought, ask, “Is this true? What evidence do I have?” Replace it with a more helpful perspective.

Awareness is like waking up to your mental “water.” Once you see it, you can navigate your life with clarity and purpose. Start today—what will you notice?