When we’re in the middle of anxiety or spiralling into negative thinking, it can feel like this is our reality. But is it really? Is there a different way? Vivian reflects on how challenging our thoughts can help us find a more positive perspective.

Our thoughts can be influenced by emotions, biases and perceptions, creating a reality that seems obvious and true for us in the moment.

But our thoughts don’t always accurately reflect the truth… and this can be so empowering to know! Recognizing that thoughts aren’t facts – and that our thoughts can be questioned and even challenged – can help us reframe negative or distorted thinking patterns, and support our mental and emotional well-being.

Dissociating facts from thoughts is one of the most powerful techniques for managing worry and anxiety – and a key element of both cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and mindfulness practices. When we do this, we highlight the distinction between what we think and feel (subjective reality) and objective reality.

So what does it take to get this right? Practice! 😊 As you build a habit of challenging your thoughts, you may notice a real difference in how you experience your reality. You may notice a world of possibilities you hadn’t considered.

Here’s an exercise to try when you’re feeling worried or anxious:

•  Stop for a moment – it may even help to imagine a red stop sign.

• Do this quick reality check: What are the facts/evidence that make me think this way? Is this really true? Do I have any facts/evidence to show a different view?

• Shift your focus to the new evidence and/or to something more productive.

Using our thoughts for our own benefit

Separating thought from fact is a very effective technique for interrupting negative thoughts that are making us feel despondent or worried. But we can also use the power of our thoughts as a direct strategy to build a more functional way of thinking and a more positive reality. Because our thoughts can shape our reality, we can choose the scenarios that serve us.

Visualization, for example, is not a current reality or “fact”, but our thoughts and imaginings are helping us to see alternatives and to shape our reality in meaningful, positive and exciting ways. Similarly, when something happens in our lives, we can choose what meaning we give it. For example, if you’ve gone through a break-up, you might bring meaning to this difficult time by using it as an opportunity to reflect and grow and spend time with yourself, knowing that love will come one again.

Turning our thoughts into our greatest allies allows us to receive more and to shift perspective.

With love
Vivian

Have you challenged your thoughts and found an entirely different perspective? What techniques do you use to interrupt negative thoughts OR build a habit of more positive thoughts? We love to hear from you!