How To Curb Negative Thinking

Negative Thinking

We’ve all been there…

Lost in a downward spiral of negative thinking. It’s a self-defeating cycle fueled by doubt and anxiety. It continues to build and gain momentum like a snowball down a hill taking out everything in its path.

These feelings are only intensified for those who suffer from depression and anxiety. Negative thinking can easily feel like quicksand if left unmanaged.

The good news is you can stop negative thinking in its tracks and move forward in positivity. Here are a few things to keep in mind…


Be Present

One of the best ways to stop negative thinking is to refocus your energy on the current moment. Stop and be present. The next time you feel yourself spiraling into negativity, remember to shift your thinking to the here and now.

Mindfulness techniques work to help keep you present and focused on the current moment. There are several mindfulness practices you can use to stop anxious thoughts from flooding in. Focus on your breathing. Let go of all the “what-ifs” and negative self-talk.

Tune Into Your Thoughts

You are not your thoughts.

When your thoughts are negative, they can make you feel sad, angry, and confused. Remember, thoughts are never the real you! Let your thoughts come…process them…and let them go.

As you process your thoughts, think about why you might be feeling a certain way. Many times, there’s an underlying cause to your negativity that you can work out on a deeper level. Don’t be afraid to reach out for support!

Set Healthy Boundaries

Setting healthy boundaries in all areas of your life can help you thrive! Boundaries are important in relationships with others and with ourselves. Avoid feeling overwhelmed by learning when (and how) to say “no”. Also, don’t fall victim to the comparison trap social media sometimes presents.

When you feel your thoughts spiraling negatively, take a step back.

Stop and listen—ask yourself why they are happening.

Once you do, set some boundaries that will prevent a downward spiral of negativity in the future.

Everyone experiences negative thoughts from time to time but it’s important no to let them spiral and ruin your entire day. We’re here to help you to gain control over your thoughts and feelings. Give our office a call today!

How To Stop Blaming Yourself For Everything

EMDR Therapist | Anxiety Treatment | Foundations Family Therapy | Fuquay Varina & Raleigh, NC

Do you find yourself saying “I’m Sorry” multiple times a day?

Constantly apologizing for things you didn’t do or are out of your control?

Why are we so hard on ourselves?

The Voice Of Our Inner-Critic

Self-blame and criticism are behaviors that are learned over time. Maybe you had a particularly critical influence in your life that has taught you to over-apologize. Negative self talk can ruin your self-esteem and confidence.

That destructive voice inside can really hold you back from thriving in life. Negative thinking can affect everything from your relationships to performance at work or school. The good news is you can change your mindset to welcome positivity and cultivate happiness in life in a few simple steps.

Recognize Your Emotions

It’s OK to feel a variety of emotions each day. Sometimes these are negative. What’s more important is to pay attention to triggers when you sleep into a bad mood or become upset. The more in touch you are with your feelings, the better you’ll understand what ignites your inner critic so you can stop it from becoming destructive.

Create A Plan For Positive Self Talk

If you want to stop over apologizing and blaming yourself for everything, then you need to change the way you think. Often times, people who take the blame are very compassionate. They care deeply about others and take the blame so others don’t have to experience negativity.

Start by practicing self-love and care. Speak kindly to yourself. As a general rule of thumb, if you wouldn’t say it to a friend, don’t say it to yourself.

Develop A ‘Glass Half Full’ Mindset

Try seeing life through a different lens! This is what we mean when we talk about going from surviving to thriving. In order to develop that thriving mindset, you’ll have to change your outlook and thinking.

View mistakes as learning opportunities. Accept challenges and defeat as part of life. Look for ways to self-improve without beating yourself up or constantly taking the blame.

Above all, remember to be kind to yourself because you are doing the best you can!