We all have those days or even weeks when we question our life’s purpose or mission. Dwelling too much on things that we feel should be different or are not going our way profoundly impacts our current state of happiness. Negative thoughts can actually be useful to us when we are experiencing stressful or traumatic events. However, long-term negative thinking can prove to be destructive to our minds and bodies. According to Dr. Daniel Amen, Automatic Negative Thoughts (A.N.T.’s) are the seeds of depression and anxiety. Furthermore, believing our negative thoughts can also be deeply destructive to our recovery efforts. When we lose control of negative thinking, our behavior soon follows. Our thoughts frequently lead to our actions.
When we find ourselves buried in negative thinking, some simple questions can be immensely helpful. These questions can reframe our mindset and pull ourselves out of these destructive thinking patterns. Byron Katie, in her book Loving What Is, suggests asking ourselves the following questions:
- Is that thought in your head true?
- Are you 100% sure it’s true?
- How do I feel when I believe this thought?
- Who would you be, or how would you feel if you didn’t have this thought?
After answering these questions, Katie suggests coming up with a “turnaround,” which is a statement saying the opposite of the current negative belief. For instance, “I am not strong enough” would change to “I am strong enough” or “I have all of the strength I need.” These “turnaround” statements can become a list of affirmations that we can refer to when we find ourselves getting caught up in negative thinking patterns.
Taking the time to write down and reflect on our negative thoughts as we run them through this series of questions followed by a “turnaround” statement can lead to significant results. We will feel better as we develop self-awareness and compassion while contributing to more authentic relationships with ourselves and others.
No matter how much your negative thinking has been impacting your life, there is a solution. Our experienced staff can help, if you’re interested in healing your mind and body for a better future. The Guest House is a welcoming and supportive recovery home where you will be met with compassion and understanding, wherever you are on your journey, without judgment or expectation. Call 855-876-3884 today for more information.