This is a thoughtful and honest reflection, Janice.
One thing that has helped me is keeping straight the difference between possibility and probability. So much stress comes from what I call our Automatic Brain treating what *could* happen as if it is likely, imminent, and dangerous.
That does not mean the stress is fake. The body can respond very real to a perceived threat. But I find that when I pause and ask, “Is this truly probable, or merely possible?” I can usually lower the alarm enough to respond rather than react.
I also appreciate your point about becoming your coach rather than your critic. That may be one of the hardest habits to build, but also one of the most important.
I sure am enjoying your new book, Janice. I hope others will consider it. It will make great gifts for my family members - so many of us are now over 70.... ( How did THAT happen? )
How much we stress ourselves is a question worth pondering.
This is a thoughtful and honest reflection, Janice.
One thing that has helped me is keeping straight the difference between possibility and probability. So much stress comes from what I call our Automatic Brain treating what *could* happen as if it is likely, imminent, and dangerous.
That does not mean the stress is fake. The body can respond very real to a perceived threat. But I find that when I pause and ask, “Is this truly probable, or merely possible?” I can usually lower the alarm enough to respond rather than react.
I also appreciate your point about becoming your coach rather than your critic. That may be one of the hardest habits to build, but also one of the most important.
I sure am enjoying your new book, Janice. I hope others will consider it. It will make great gifts for my family members - so many of us are now over 70.... ( How did THAT happen? )
That post rang true for me Janice and also gave me some new things to think about x
Thank you! Wise advice.