Thinking about your troubled thoughts

Fish don’t see the water they swim in and Humans don’t see the thoughts they live in.

A human without thoughts will not survive, just like fish won't survive on land. Yet, sometimes we need to come up for air.

But unlike fish we seem to have some control over our thinking. In recent times this has been studied and attempted by psychologists and psychiatrists. Others preach the positive mindset.

'If you want it, you can do it! '

Thoughts are funny things. The moment you are asked not to think of a pink elephant, your mind goes at it in an uncontrollable way. Even if it is not a full image, your mind is still trying to 'not think about a pink elephant' at this point.

Our thoughts have their own uncontrollable minds when we worry, fret or hesitate. When we try to fall asleep and also when we try to meditate.

Is that all bad? Not if you are happy with what your thinking. Maybe you have a happy trouble free life. And that case, click away and move on.

Most of us don't. Just when you 'think' that all goes well, life throws another curve ball at you. Pain, stress, traffic jams and burned toast. Life happens. Your water is polluted. Your train of thought is going, full throttle.

Unlike a fish, you might realize this.

How the clean the water?

There are no quick methods, no '1-2-3 and your free' formulas. There are a few steps I recommend you take. And if you are already doing some or all of this, keep going. Practice does not make perfect, but it does help you to reduce the noise.

1. Micro meditations

Take a deep breath, three times in a row. Focus fully on the air flowing in through your nose and out. Or focus on the rising and falling of your chest. Feel how this calms you down. Even if it is for just a second. Cherish this micro moment.

2. Observe yourself

Although we are the spotlight trying to put the spotlight on ourselves, you are capable of observing yourself while you are being upset, in a fight, worrying or unable to fall asleep. Just notice that you are struggling, suffering even and accept that it is like this right now. Nothing more, nothing less. Accepting that you are not ok, that you have negative emotions helps to give them a place. Over time you will be able to put it all in a different, often more balanced and positive perspective.

3. Read, preferably relevant content

Go to Reddit or Substack and find people that write about the stuff you are struggling with. Figure out, probably through thinking first. Then see how they deal with it. Finding support and inspirations through the stories and insights of others is a great way to leap and bounce forward.

Ultimately: unpack your mind

Our minds are packed with thoughts. Our constant exposure to internet through screens keeps adding more stuff. Consider to tidy up your mind. The more you unpack, the lighter it gets. A lighter mind let's you live more freely. You are more present and can enjoy every single moment, instead of temporary highs with the inevitable lows in between.

Enjoy your day!