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Changing the magnifying glass focus from problems to strengths
Even when you have a good day, one bad thing like horrible service at Starbucks, boss making a lousy comment, computer crashing can ruin your day. This can lead you to focusing on all negative aspects in your life. Instead try to focus on positives and if it is difficult write things down. Have trigger words to help you think outside the negativity and focus on how these challenges help you grow and strengthen yourself. Tell yourself there is no need to magnify this out of proportion. Take a deep breath and take it step by step to find solutions.
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Turning disasters into acceptance
With the way the economy is currently, it is easy to think “what if I lose my job?,” “what if disaster strikes?”, etc. It can be an endless list. Understand that as long as you work hard, you won’t lose your job. If you do, it may be the opportunity to reconsider a career change or another job opportunity to come. By being inundated with the “what ifs,” stress can overflow. At some point, one must let go.
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Deleting “should”
There’s always something that we could have or should have done. But with the “should have” thought circling in our heads, it can be quite burdening. Feelings of guilt, shame, loss can overwhelm us. No one is perfect and everyone is bound to make mistakes. It’s important not to be hard on yourself and blame yourself for something you could not see coming.
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Changing the idea of “Can’t change” into “Can Change”
It is irrational to think that we are all products of our past history and that we can’t change much. Indeed it may be difficult to change everything about ourselves, we are constantly improving and therefore changing. For example, in learning from past experiences or past mistakes we change by not doing it again.
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Emotions can be controlled
No one has a 100% handle on their emotions, but emotions can be controlled or used in a positive way. One way is being aware of what triggers feelings of anger, sadness, and guilt. Then you can find solutions to help. For example, perhaps it is exercise, hanging out with friends, or seeking professional help.
