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            Behavioral scientists have discovered that we usually see things that we are prepared to see.  This is all centered in a network of nerve cells called the “Reticular Activating System.”  Everybody has this system.

            The “Reticular Activating System” works like this:  Once something has been brought to our attention, and we have been prepared to see it, we’ll see it virtually everywhere we go.

            For example, you decide to buy a new car.  You make up your mind that you are going to buy a certain brand, a certain body style, and a certain color.  Now, you’ll see those cars everywhere.  You’ll see them on the roads, in TV advertisements, in newspapers and magazines. They’re everywhere.

            Now what has happened?  They were always there, but the moment you were prepared to see them, your Reticular Activating System kicked in, and suddenly you saw them everywhere.

            It happens in other areas of life, too.  We see what we are prepared to see.  If we are prepared to see doom & gloom this year, then that’s what we’ll see.  If, on the other hand, we have prepared ourselves to see sunshine & opportunities, then that’s what we are going to see.