(Clearwisdom.net) Many people in the world find themselves stuck in a mindset of negative thinking. They don't understand that this is a reason why many of them fail in their lives. As such, negative thinking is an attachment that cultivators must let go of.

People with habitual negative thinking are generally pessimistic about results. They often put themselves in the mindset of worry, anxiety and fear. They tend to fear the worst. This in itself can have adverse effects on their health. But their negative thinking can also actually make the outcome of any particular situation worse. As an old Chinese saying goes: “The appearance stems from one's mind and the environment comes from one's heart.” There is also the saying, “You will get whatever you expect.” Old sayings sometimes have some truth to them, and in this case, they may well be revealing a heavenly principle. Master Li Hongzhi said in Essentials for Further Advancement II:

“All of you are already aware of the principle of mutual-generation and mutual-inhibition. If you are not afraid, the factor that would make you afraid will cease to exist. This is not to be self-imposed, but is achieved by truly and calmly letting go of it.” (“Eliminate Your Last Attachment(s)”)

Atheists don't believe in the existence of Buddhas or Gods. They only believe that man will die in the end. From a certain perspective, then, it might be said that they are the biggest pessimists and negative thinkers. They also believe that “life is painful and short, so enjoy it to the fullest!” They don't acknowledge the principle that good deeds bring good returns, and that with evil deeds comes certain retribution. Such thinking may well be the source of many evils.

Cultivators live among ordinary people, so they might be tempted to adopt patterns of negative thinking as well. But as long as we remember to use the principles of Truthfulness-Compassion-Forbearance to look inward and gauge our behavior, many problems can be quickly resolved. When I have bad thoughts, I recite what Master said in Zhuan Falun:

“He does not care at all in his heart for any ordinary human matter, and he will always be smiling and in good spirits. No matter how much loss he suffers, he will still be smiling and in good spirits without any concern.”

When I recite this passage a few times, I become lighthearted. With righteous thoughts, I believe that I can achieve: “The Buddha-light illuminates everywhere and rectifies all abnormalities.”

I recommend that any non-practitioner who wants to rid himself of the curse of negative thinking read the book Zhuan Falun. I am sure you will gain a lot from it.