Good News for Control Freaks
Stress comes in different forms. The harmful kind is directly correlated to how out of control of our lives we feel.
An effective antidote then is to manage the things that allow you to feel like you're in better control. Even simple things. Plan tomorrow's schedule today. Clean your car. Prepare your next several meals.
Psychologically, it doesn't matter much whether you actually are in better control of your life. Though you probably will be. It matters that you believe you are.
Technology Can Help You Build Better Habits Too
Technology gets plenty of criticism, often deserved. But it’s part of our lives. Why not make it serve us?
I use the Breathe app to send myself simple reminders: “Stop and breathe for 10 seconds.” That small nudge turned something I knew was useful, but rarely did, into a habit I practice five times a day.
Knowing what matters isn’t enough. We become what we repeatedly do. Let’s use technology to help us do it better.
You Are Not Your Thoughts
It’s interesting how we say “I am angry,” but no one would think to say “I am a broken arm.” We experience both. Both are transitory, but neither define us.
Just because you feel, think or say something doesn’t mean it has to define you forever. You are not your thoughts.
Mindfulness means remembering you don’t have to believe everything you think.
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