You are not the voice of the mind. You are the one observing the voice of the mind.
This simple, yet powerful realization is rooted in eastern spiritual traditions and stands as a key perspective for many contemporary psychotherapy approaches, such as cognitive behavioral therapy as well as acceptance and commitment therapy. It is also foundational for the practice of mindfulness meditation.
Take a moment to reflect on this statement:
You are not the voice of the mind. You are the one observing the voice of the mind.
Pause and listen to the voice in your head, the voice of your mind. What is it saying? Do you notice how it is always talking, always narrating your life? Sometimes it might be questioning you or critiquing you. Sometimes it might be listing the things you should or should not be doing. Sometimes it even takes opposing positions and argues with itself! None of this is you. You are the observer of the voice.
The voice of the mind is constantly active, following its habitual patterns of thought to help you navigate your life, often attempting to reduce distress through prediction and control. However, all too often this voice is not helpful. Sometimes this voice even creates more problems!
Have you even been sitting quietly or meditating and noticed that the voice has become quiet, even momentarily? If so, do you recall how this experience felt?
You are not the voice in your mind. You are the one observing the voice in your mind.
Practice observing the voice in your mind throughout the day and repeat this simple statement as a reminder. “I am not the voice in my mind. I am the one observing the voice in my mind.” With practice you will gradually gain distance from the voice in your mind and develop greater objectivity around your experience. You are the observer of the voice and the observer of your moment-to-moment experience. In this way you are much bigger than any single thought, worry, or self-criticism.
Dr. Thomas Lindquist, Psy.D.
Licensed Psychologist
PSYPACT Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT) Map of Participating States
Email to schedule an appointment: thomaslindquist@therapistsincharlotte.com
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