how your thoughts shape your brain

Welcome back to Sunday Goods !!!

Something I’ve been thinking about a lot lately is how often we forget that our thoughts… aren't just passing things - they're patterns & the more we repeat them, the more they start to feel like truth—even when they're not.

There's a science to it: our brains are made up of billions of neurons, and when we think the same thought over and over, those neurons start to connect in a way that makes that thought easier to access. It's called a neural pathway, and it works like a shortcut your brain builds—just trying to be efficient.

So the more often we think “I’m behind” or “I’m not good enough”, the easier it becomes for our brain to go there again. Not because it’s right—but because it’s familiar.

That hit me hard - because if your inner world has been shaped by anxiety, self-doubt, or survival mode… then of course those are the roads your brain is used to walking. Of course it takes work to imagine something different, but that work is worth it.

& here’s the best part: your brain isn’t stuck, it can change. That’s the magic of neuroplasticity—the ability to build new pathways, healthier ones. & yeah, it takes time and intention - but the same way we accidentally wired ourselves into stress, we can rewire ourselves into peace.

So what does that look like in real life?

It doesn’t mean forcing yourself to be happy all the time.
It means catching the thought before it digs in too deep.
It means being kind to yourself even when your brain is being loud.

Little moments like:

✧ noticing when the spiral starts
✧ taking a breath and asking, “wait, is this true?”
✧ saying something softer, like:
  — “I’m allowed to go slow.”
  — “that was hard, and I got through it.”
  — “I’m still becoming.”

That’s how new roads get built.

& I’ll be honest—it doesn’t always feel natural. Especially if you’ve been wired into anxiety or self-doubt for a long time - but every time you choose a different thought, even once, you’re laying down a new brick.
One that leads to something safer, something calmer, & something more you.

This week, just pick one thought that’s been on repeat in your mind.

• write it down.

• then ask yourself:
  "is this a road I want to keep walking?"
  If not—gently reroute.

Your future self will thank you for the detour.

With care,

Elle