“One reason negative thoughts can feel so powerful is that they often contain a grain of truth. For example, the thought ‘I might fail’ is true – failure is always a possibility. The thought ‘I’m not good enough’ might have a bit of truth to it, in the sense that you (like everyone else) probably have room for growth and improvement. But just because a thought is true, or partly true, doesn’t mean it’s helpful to you.” -Joe Oliver and Kristy Potter
I came across this excellent Psyche article from the authors listed in the quote above: “Instead of wrestling with self-defeating thoughts, try this” and thought to share it.
It explains Relational Frame Theory and why certain thought patterns never work, yet also provides alternative strategies that can. Three from the article are as follows:
-Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)…Ask yourself if the thought you’re having is actually helpful to where you want to go or who you want to be (and do so without scolding yourself for having the though, which I think is key)
-Connect To The Present Moment…Notice your surroundings and connect to your breath. Repeat as often as necessary.
-Create Distance From Your Thoughts…Notice your thoughts and emotions. Then remind yourself that you are not your thoughts. Use humor to aid in doing so.
Give the article a read and also this prior post about Reframing.
Let me know what you think!
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