How To Stop Having A Dirty Mind

Your mind is precious and has tremendous capabilities. Sadly, some people might be stuck with unwanted, repulsing or dirty thoughts in their mind. Most often, this is not by choice, but instead caused by intrusive thoughts that seem to come up out of nowhere or may start after a trigger (i.e. seeing or hearing something that takes the mind down the wrong path).

There is no need to blame yourself for this if it is something you deal with. There are ways in which unwanted or disturbing thoughts can be controlled.

Ways to stop having a dirty mind

If you feel that you have a dirty mind, here’s what you can do to keep it under control.

1. Fill your mind with good thoughts

The opposite of a dirty thought is a clean one and that is exactly what you should fill your mind with. Not all thoughts are under the control of their owner, but you can develop your ability to think more pleasantly. Ideally, you would eliminate your dirty thoughts but that may not always be possible – so at least try to control them.

If you find yourself consciously thinking improper thoughts, stop yourself and start purposefully thinking of appropriate ones. There are numerous topics available to you here. Technology, architecture, nature, health, etc. Get used to focusing on acceptable areas of thinking.

2. Realize you are not bad if your thoughts are

It is important to avoid defining yourself by your thoughts (especially if they are unwanted). Thoughts are just that, thoughts. They are not actions. Yes, undignified thoughts can be bad but if you don’t behave in an undignified manner you don’t need to be too harsh on yourself. Focus on fixing your thoughts, not feeling guilty because of them. If you hate your thoughts and consider them dirty, this is already indicative that you are not the problem.

3. Ignore thoughts/let them be

Resisting inappropriate thoughts carries with it a strong chance that they will simply become stronger. Many people do not have the ability to will away a thought by fighting it. There is a good chance no matter what you do you will still get unwanted thoughts once in a while.

Ignore these. Simply let them be. Allow them to come and go. Don’t acknowledge or become emotional because of them. Continue on and think what you want on your own terms, regardless of what pops up in your mind.

4. Find positive examples in life

We live in a time where being exposed to explicit content is commonplace. The internet is full of content that could create dirty thoughts in people. It can serve as a sort of inspiration for your dirty thoughts. It can be other places as well – not being specifically restricted to the internet. Change this by surrounding yourself with positive examples.

Steer towards content that is educational, peaceful, provides G-rated comedy or makes you happy. Try listening to chill music that doesn’t contain inappropriate language. Go for a walk, take time to learn a new topic, spend time with family and do other activities that are not likely to take your mind down the wrong path.

5. Do something useful for yourself

Try combating dirty thoughts by dedicating your mental energy and attention towards important and useful life tasks. Focus your mind on bettering yourself and improving your life. Try to focus on resolving problems you may have, as well. Strive to focus on your health, learn something new or develop a skill. You slowly may see yourself moving away from focusing on distasteful thoughts towards focusing on you and finding joy in personal growth.