Positive thinking

Positive automated thoughts
Counter Negative automated thoughts
Practice positive thinking

You are in control of what you think. Your mind is yours and no one else has direct control. Others can influence and suggest but you are in charge. This is a key point when you consider how you feel.

Positive automated thoughts

Positive automated thoughts can be enhanced with practise. These are positive thoughts that arise in response to visual, auditory or other sensory experiences. They can be learnt, but often relate to past experiences. An example may be a piece of music that brings back a happy memory. Or it may be a word that brings with it associations, such as the word sunshine which helps recall a beach holiday.

Counter Negative automated thoughts

As well as positive associations the mind generates negative thoughts in response to situations. Some people generate more negative automated thoughts and need to actively counter these. An example may be a busy day and the automatic thought that you are not good enough to cope.

Techniques to counter negative thoughts include reality checking and linking to positive automated thoughts. Standing back and looking at the situation objectively. Just because it is busy does not mean you are not good enough, everyone else is busy too (reality check). Busy means the day goes quicker (link positive thought)

Practice positive thinking

Actively rehearse positive thoughts. Recalling several when you start the days helps. Counter negative thoughts with prepared positive thoughts. This may seem structured but it does work.