5 Tips For Managing Negative Thoughts That Make You Anxious

Illustration of tricks to manage anxiety negative thoughts (Freepik/stockking)

YOGYAKARTA - Have you ever felt negative thoughts just come and worry? Don't worry, you're not alone. Psychologist Sam Akbar, Ph.D. in his book Stressive, says to "reign" negative thoughts need to keep your distance so that you can focus on what is really meaningful in your life. In detail, here are tips for managing negative thoughts so you don't worry about being sustainable.

Certain techniques can help create distance between you and negative thoughts. For example, rather than saying 'I'm a con artist,' starting with I'm having the mind that I'm a con artist. You'll realize that the mind just comes and doesn't automatically reflect on who you are. This mild observation can reduce the feeling of drowning in the anxious mind.

Instead of fighting negative thoughts, determine respect for the part of the mind that is worried. "He, Sheila. Thank you, but I'm fine." This is not to mock, but to recognize its protective function while still in control. This technique helps you not get caught up in a tiring inner debate.

Recite negative thoughts, for example I failed completely, then sing in the tone Happy Birthday or in the voice of a funny character like Mr. Bean. This technique is not to harass yourself, but to help you see that thought as words, not an absolute law that must be obeyed. This method can reduce the emotional power of the mind.

A classic experiment by psychologist Edward Titchener, reciting the word repeatedly is able to weaken the meaning of emotion. Launching Mind Body Green, Friday, September 12, such as reciting the word lemon' 40 times makes the word lose meaning and emotion. Applying to negative thoughts you call words like stupid or failed' dozens of times. Slowly, the word will feel like an empty sound, not self-destructive criticism. The goal is not to convince, but to weaken the addiction.

Write annoying thoughts, such as I am useless, on a piece of paper and bring them in your wallet or bag. When that thought comes back up, you just need to look at the notes, recognize them, and then move on to what's really important. This helps you realize that it's just a line of thoughts and doesn't determine your life.

The five tips for managing negative thoughts that make you anxious above offer simple but meaningful ways to create distance, reduce emotions, and maintain a focus on things that are more important in life.