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I AM GOING CRAZY
On today’s episode of It’s All Connected podcast, I address something that hits close to home for many of us: that feeling of going crazy. We’ve all experienced those moments when our thoughts become overwhelming, making it essential for us to regain intentional control. I want to guide you through a step-by-step process that will help you regain control over your thoughts and emotions, allowing you to navigate challenging times with resilience and clarity, just like I have.
Step 1: Take a Deep Breath
The first step towards regaining control is as simple as taking a few deep breaths. It’s incredible how much power lies in our breath, something we often overlook. When we breathe deeply, we supply our bodies with the oxygen they need and trigger a calming response in our nervous system. So, let’s take a moment together to breathe deeply. Inhale as deeply as you can, hold it for a few seconds, and then exhale slowly, letting go of any tension or negativity weighing you down. Repeat this process ten times or as many times as you feel comfortable.
Step 2: Remember, “This, Too, Shall Pass”
Amidst chaos and confusion, it’s crucial to remind ourselves that no matter how intense our thoughts and emotions may be, they are temporary. This, too, shall pass. Recognizing the impermanence of our experiences can bring solace and hope. It helps to recall past challenges we’ve overcome, realizing that they are now distant memories. Doing so nurtures resilience and strengthens our belief that we can overcome our current struggles as well.
Step 3: Shift Your Focus Intentionally
Once we have control of our breath and acknowledge the transient nature of our thoughts and emotions, we can intentionally redirect our focus. This is where written goals, hobbies, or any positive and uplifting activity can make a significant difference. Engaging in activities that bring us joy and fulfillment creates a shift in our energy, naturally fading away negative thoughts. Remember, you have the power to choose where you place your attention and what you feed your mind.
Step 4: Recognize the Power of Perception
It’s fascinating how our minds can blow seemingly trivial matters out of proportion, turning them into significant burdens. Take, for instance, a bill that you owe. Initially, the thought of the bill might not carry much weight, but as you dwell on it, your mind inflates its significance, leading to stress and anxiety. Understanding this tendency is crucial. By catching ourselves before we cross the “point of no return,” that arbitrary line where we feel trapped in negative thoughts, we can change our direction and choose a different perspective.
Step 5: Catch It Early
The key to mastering this technique lies in catching negative thoughts early, before they take root in our minds. Awareness is essential. By cultivating mindfulness and paying attention to subtle shifts in our thinking patterns, we can intercept negative thoughts before they gain control over us. It takes practice and dedication, but the more we train our minds to recognize and redirect unhelpful thoughts, the more empowered we become.
the journey to regaining control over our thoughts and emotions starts with acknowledging those moments when we feel like we’re going crazy. By following the steps I’ve outlined – taking deep breaths, acknowledging the impermanence of our experiences, intentionally shifting our focus, understanding the power of perception, and catching negative thoughts early – we can empower ourselves to live with greater clarity, peace, and purpose. Trust me, it’s a journey worth taking.
