Overcoming Faulty Thoughts

Here are some tips to overcoming the faulty thoughts that were discussed here. One trick I have learned is to visualize a big red stop sign and say the word STOP. Out loud or in your head, it doesn’t matter. This interrupts my negative thoughts and I am able to apply new ones.

Some examples of the more realistic thoughts could be:

• I can handle this
• I have just as much right to be here as anyone else
• I am confident
• I am an intelligent person
• I deserve respect
• Change the words “What if?” to “So What!”

The whole idea is to replace the “what if” statements (what if I say something embarrassing) to positive and supportive statements.

The next step, is to write down key questions to diffuse the negativity.

• What are the odds of this really happening?
• Is this always true?
• What is the worst that can happen?
• What is the evidence of this?

Study, learn, and memorize your new supportive statements. Don’t just read them. Believe them!

This is another excellent book to help you through those anxious moments. Find out what “Mindfulness” truly means and why it is so important in your recovery.