We often take our minds very seriously. We believe that if our mind says something, it must be important. It must mean something. It must be true! 

No matter how biased our minds might be, we often operate as if the stories it tells us are true.    

What stories does your mind tell you? What do you find yourself thinking about the most? What are your most frequent patterns of interpreting the world around you? What do you find yourself ruminating about or dwelling on?  

The mind is just doing what minds do. In addition to stories, our minds also strive to identify danger and keep us safe. For this reason, it often errs on the side of warning us of potential threats. Although this is sometimes helpful, interpreting experience with an emphasis on threat and safety can lead to heightened anxiety and unhelpful avoidance.  

Understanding that our mind is designed to create meaning or interpret our experiences with an eye to danger is often very helpful in reducing anxiety and letting go of worries. Thoughts are just thoughts. Thoughts are not facts. 

Our mind is going to do what it wants to do. We don’t have control over the thoughts or stories that pop into our head. The important thing is how we respond to our thoughts or the stories we tell ourselves. How flexible are you in reacting to your thoughts?  

Next time you find yourself feeling anxious or replaying a story in your mind, take a moment to observe your mind. Find a useful way to acknowledge that your mind is feeding you thoughts that are not necessarily facts and stories that may or may not be true and may or may not occur in the future.

Practice reminding yourself that thoughts are not facts. Thoughts are mental events. Our mind tells stories and attempts to make meaning, but it is not always accurate or trustworthy.  

Recognize that your mind can be questioned and the thoughts your mind creates can be viewed from a distance as stories. Bring your focus back to whatever you are doing right in front of you in the present moment. Remind yourself that we see the world around us not so much as it is, but as we are.   

Dr. Thomas Lindquist, Psy.D.

Licensed Psychologist 

Contact: t.lindquist.psyd@gmail.com