Working with Automatic Thoughts

Reflecting on Our Mental Patterns with Compassion

As we traverse through life in various roles — a mother, teacher, boyfriend, or simply a “liver,” as Orry puts it — we may end up sidelining the process of accepting our own unique and sometimes puzzling patterns.

As we pass through different phases of life, it’s natural to become deeply engrossed in how we interpret events — the success of projects, the weight of praise, or even the emptiness of silence. In these moments, we may find ourselves overly critical, either of our own behavior or that of others, based solely on those interpretations.

Understanding Ourselves in Solitude

To truly connect with others — in any capacity — it’s essential we first gain insight into how we operate when we’re by ourselves.

This awareness might show up in small but meaningful ways:

Recognizing why silence feels awkward and why we rush to fill it
Understanding the comfort of planning ahead — even when others may find it exhausting
Acknowledging that our need for community and connection is deeply rooted in our nature as social beings

This Week’s Theme: Working with Automatic Thoughts

Our minds are powerful, but sometimes they work too quickly. Automatic thoughts are mental shortcuts we develop over time — often without noticing — in response to past experiences, emotions, or learned behavior. They can shape how we view ourselves, others, and the world. Let’s gently explore how these thoughts may be impacting us:

🧠 Do You Focus on One Part of the Story?

When recalling past events, do you tend to zero in on specific details or negative outcomes, rather than viewing the whole picture? What might be left out when we narrow our focus?

💭 Is There Just One Possible Conclusion?

Do your thoughts often lead you down a single path — one definitive conclusion? Is it possible that not all experiences should be reduced to just one meaning?

🕰️ Does the Past Seem Mostly Negative?

When you think of your past, do the painful moments stand out more than the joyful ones? Why might that be, and how could it shift if you explored the full emotional landscape?

📚 Do You Need All the Information Before Acting?

Is it necessary to fully understand every detail before you can move forward or make a choice? Or can you leave space for uncertainty, trusting that clarity may come through action itself?

❤️ Can You Feel Without Judging?

Can you offer yourself permission to simply feel — without stepping in to critique or analyze those feelings? What might happen if you allowed your emotions to just exist, without rushing to label them as right or wrong?

A Reminder on Growth

We hope these weekly reflections help you reconnect with your emotional roots, your life philosophy, and your often-overlooked gifts — especially those parts of you that may have been unfairly dismissed as “too much.”

In truth, these are the qualities the world may need the most right now.

If you or someone you know needs a deeper understanding of mental health or is struggling with emotional stress, we invite you to reach out to our ‘Support’ and ‘Engage’ verticals for affordable and inclusive care.

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