Is estimated that people think 12,000 to 50,000 thoughts per day! Some of those thoughts are really useful, while others can be unhelpful. Everyone thinks in unhelpful ways from time to time and there are a number of typical unhelpful thinking patterns. These can sometimes affect our mood and performance at work and contribute to stress and anxiety not only at work but also at home.
- Identify unhelpful thoughts: The first step is to notice when we are getting caught up in these patterns of thinking. Try to see whether any of your thoughts match any of the common unhelpful thought patterns mentioned above.
- Learn from unhelpful thoughts: What can you learn from this? Are these thoughts based on facts or opinions? If a friend told you they were thinking this way, what would you say to them?
- Step away from unhelpful thoughts: Try a mindfulness or a breath meditation exercise. Refer to our self-care practices to re-focus and shake off the hold of unhelpful thoughts.
- Apply problem solving skills: Refer to our ‘Basic Problem Solving in Six Steps’ as a guide to identify the problems you may be facing and to try a different approach.
- Build a positive support network: Spending time with healthy and positive people can help influence and cultivate a healthy and positive mindset in ourselves.
