Stop Second-Guessing Yourself: Part One
How a Simple Game Reveals the Secret to Breaking Free.
“Ok, you ready? On my count.”
And so it would begin. Another chance for victory or defeat, another surge of thrill or disappointment.
Rock, paper, scissors. I used to try to figure it out in my head. Was one of them more likely to win than another?
The fact that I only ever stood a one-in-three chance of winning never deterred me. The hours I spent playing this game with my brother remind me of the hours you might spend second-guessing yourself.
What if I told you there was a reliable way to respond to that STUCK feeling in your head? The one where you can’t escape the constant story loop that won’t stop, no matter what you try?
So here’s where the rules for this simple game come in handy:
If you can’t stop rehashing something from the past, combing over every detail, and judging the heck out of yourself, try this:
Redirect your attention to the body. Take one of those easy belly breaths that fill you up to the top. And then, s-l-o-w-l-y release that exhale. At the same time, you might notice the sensation of sinking into the surface that’s supporting you.
How about if your emotions are super intense?
Now, you want to switch to thinking. See if you can describe the names of the emotions showing up. Searching for words redirects the blood flow in your brain from your emotion-cranking center to your language headquarters.
Lastly, if your body is eavesdropping on your stress and your stomach is in knots:
Go for emotional connection. Ask yourself what emotion is showing up with the body sensations. Try giving this part of yourself some support. You might use the same words you’d say to a good friend.
So there you have it:
Focusing on the body is a reliable help for overthinking.
Thinking about your emotions tames their intensity.
Emotional connection releases body tension and stress.
Rock, paper, or scissors. Enjoy the game!
Want a free guide to help you flip your second-guessing script? Here it is!