Did you know that that the more you dwell on the negative the more your brain becomes accustomed to it?
We all have a tendency (some more than others) to dwell more on bad experiences than positive ones. It’s a natural tendency because it’s an evolutionary adaptation that helps us avoid danger and react quickly in a crisis.
However, you know as well as I do that constant negativity can get in the way of your happiness. Thankfully, with practice, you can learn to disrupt and tame negative cycles.
Here’s a simple method for conquering negative thinking!
Pause To Acknowledge
Acknowledgment is step number one. Next time you catch yourself having negative thoughts don’t try to push them away or stop them. Getting mad at yourself for worrying or telling yourself to stop worrying only adds fuel to the fire.
Instead, acknowledge that you are in a negative cycle. By acknowledging your negative cycle and accepting it, you are on your way to taming your negative thoughts.
Imagine acceptance as a meditative practice. Simply remind yourself to notice your thoughts, give them space and sit with them for a moment, giving them your full attention.
Ask Questions
Next, practice challenging your negative thoughts. Sometimes your negative thoughts are valid, but those that are not, need to be faced.
When your negative thoughts are making you feel agitated and overwhelmed, take deep breaths and speak to them. Yes, I want you to talk to your thoughts!
Ask (aloud or to yourself) “What are you doing here? How are you helping me? Do you need to be here right now?”
Chances are, you’ll realize your negative thoughts aren’t so useful after all and can be easily shooed away with challenging questions/thoughts.
Practice these steps daily, any time you struggle with negative thoughts. Over time you get quicker at recognizing them, acknowledging them, facing them and letting them go.
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