Automatic Thoughts
Perception of Events
Our thoughts can shape our actions.
.png)
For example:
.png)
It is not the event that bothers us. Instead, it is the way we interpret the event - the meaning we give to the event - that results in our feelings. This explains why two people experiencing the same event can react in completely different ways.
This also means that although we may not always be able to change the situations we find ourselves in or the people we meet, we are in charge of how we interpret events. Our attitudes and perspectives can determine how we feel.
Automatic Thoughts
Since our thoughts can determine how we feel, which can shape our actions, it is important to know what type of thoughts we may have.
We may have automatic thoughts that just ‘pop’ into our minds. While these thoughts are often very believable, they can be biased. This biasedness could have stemmed from our own personal experiences or social learning.
However, what we can do when an automatic thought ‘pops’ into our mind is to recognise whether the thought is helpful or unhelpful for the situation.
Examples of Unhelpful Thoughts
After attending to a challenging or routine call, when doing your work supporting the organisation, or even in your personal life, there may be some automatic thoughts that ‘pop’ into your mind. These thoughts can fall under the category of unhelpful thinking styles, which include the following:
.png)
.png)
Note: This list is not exhaustive.
Helpful Thoughts
Looking at certain situations and perceiving them as unhelpful can be a positive point of growth! It is possible to break the cycle of negativity and challenge your unhelpful thoughts. This can be done by reframing such thoughts into more helpful thoughts, so that you can break free from negative patterns of behaviours. Try out these tools to challenge unhelpful thoughts and build your mental fitness!
References
- Psychology Tools. (n.d.). Thoughts in CBT. https://www.psychologytools.com/self-help/thoughts-in-cbt/