It is easy enough to control our thoughts if we remind ourselves that God is running the world, and He knows exactly what He is doing. I once read that we should think of our possessions and position in life as if we are actors in a play. We are given the appropriate costumes and props for our specific roles. It is just as foolish for someone to covet the wealth or social standing of his neighbor. And remember, there are no small roles - each role is essential if the play is to succeed.
Excessive speech is a sign of mental disturbance.
This consists of discussions of Torah, prayer, and commandments. This consists of lies, malicious gossip, false testimony, profanity, and cursing or insulting one's fellow man. All of this is forbidden by the Torah. This includes idle discussion of current happenings and politics. God abhors such speech because it is a waste of time.