| We know that it’s the lowest-vibe monkey brain driving the tendency to create mountains out of molehills, and we know too that it’s the habit of thought that helps create the hand-wringey situation. There are tactics galore to help yourself out of this intensity, and we talked a lot about them this week: • Thought Ladders. • Recognizing our need to live in the present (“the dash”). • Stopping inflammatory thinking by understanding that you cannot build the life you want by simultaneously burning it down. We also talked about being a seeker of wisdom, and not just a container of knowledge. So let’s put a fine point on the subject and end with two specific questions you can ask yourself that will stop you from mountain-making: 1. Does this really matter? I don’t mean trivializing or dismissing the issue, but sincerely questioning its importance in the grand scheme of things. 2. Will it matter in a week or a year from now? Will it pass, or will it make a lasting impact? You can also use the Why Framework – keep asking WHY until you get to the heart of the matter. Use as many means as you can: • Write (journal and write out your goals) • Speak to yourself, your Body Clutter Buddy, and leave yourself voice memos—that is, create them on your phone, address yourself by name (important-your brain knows your name & it helps that connection), and play them back. It’s powerful hearing yourself speak to yourself about what you truly want! • Remind yourself constantly (write things down on 3×5 cards, use your name, put your Quote Deck somewhere visible) Remember, worrying and catastrophizing don’t lead to a solution – they just focus your attention on the PROBLEM. Solutions will make themselves known if you’re willing to allow for them. |
