Other Helpful Thought Tips
- Stopping. Interrupt a thought as it begins. Use a strong image or a word to interrupt the thought. Strongly state it, either internally or aloud.
- Distracting. Redirect your mind to something else internally or externally, preferably something pleasant and engaging.
- Mindful Observing. Watch, label, or log your thoughts. Use the language “I am thinking …” or “My mind is having the thought that…” to distance yourself from the thought.
- Understanding. Begin to understand where thoughts come from by asking a number of questions, including: What is the purpose of this thought? Does it tie to a specific schema?
- Mindfully Letting Go. Use imagery or words to visualize thoughts passing by. Good examples are clouds in the sky or leaves on a stream.
- Gratitude. Try to focus on something that you are grateful for from the past, present, or future.