You Are Not Your Thoughts

I want to discuss the significance of stories and how our brains reward us for completing the narratives we create to navigate through life. To make sense of things we often construct stories, about ourselves and the world we live in. Stories follow a pattern with a beginning, middle and end which our brains recognize. It feels rewarding when we have clarity about this structure. Like a song needs an ending or resolution for us to enjoy it an ended movie can leave us feeling confused and unsatisfied because there's no closure or clear resolution for the characters. Research indicates that our brains release dopamine when we recognize and complete patterns. We naturally seek meaning so if there are gaps, in the stories we tell ourselves we tend to fill them in order to complete the pattern. For instance imagine you bought a shirt that you're not entirely comfortable wearing but decide to wear it

So you head out to catch your bus for work. You can't help but think about your shirt. It's a bit bold. You're not entirely comfortable, with it. This thought lingers in your mind as you continue with your day. As you sit on the bus someone sitting behind you bursts into laughter.

As you turn around you suddenly make eye contact, with someone who was laughing. Instantly your mind jumps to conclusions assuming that they were laughing at your shirt. This doesn't make you feel good. You might even criticize yourself for choosing to wear that shirt. It's likely that this thought stays with you throughout the day making you hyper aware of your clothing choice.

Our brains have an inclination towards seeking self-preservation and security. To achieve this we often fill in gaps in our understanding with information derived from our insecurities. That's why we tend to create stories to explain why unfortunate events occur; by knowing the cause we can better prepare ourselves to avoid situations in the future.

Unfortunately these stories we create are often inaccurate even though we genuinely believe them to be true. The problem is that being right isn't as important as feeling certain. We tend to prioritize certainty over accuracy when it comes to these self-deprecating narratives because they provide a sense of reward.

Consequently we become more resistant, to embracing uncertainty and vulnerability in order to discover the truth. Living with uncertainty can feel uncomfortable and vulnerable.

However it's crucial to acknowledge that we experience a emotional state without the accompanying physical reward. It's important to understand that our brains release dopamine when we mentally construct a narrative regardless of its accuracy. This mechanism is our brains way of protecting ourselves. The challenge lies in the fact that we often create narratives based on our insecurities.

Every day we experience a multitude of thoughts, emotions, desires, memories and sensations. These experiences shape the stories we tell ourselves about our lives. However it's important to recognize that these stories are often flawed and can create an anxious existence. For instance if we believe the story that we're not good enough, due to insecurities we will continue living in a love that reflects this belief.

To avoid falling into the trap of creating narratives it's crucial to be aware when we are doing so. Our stories often feel justified and real to us which's why the first step towards change is acknowledging that they are simply stories. By saying to ourselves "the story I'm making up is " we create some distance from the events themselves. Gain perspective on our feelings associated with them.

Becoming more conscious of the meanings we attach to events or situations is also essential. We should ask ourselves what objectively true information exists, what assumptions we might be making, what alternative possibilities could exist and whether additional information is necessary. Of seeking answers it's beneficial to prioritize asking questions.

Additionally it's important to recognize when our own confabulations occur and challenge them. The good news is that these stories can be rewritten. Furthermore by delving into our responses like anger or frustration we can uncover underlying feelings such as vulnerability or shame. Identifying these emotions allows us to address them effectively.

Lastly accepting that there will always be uncertainties in life becomes a certainty, for us. It's okay not knowing all the answers or having understanding; embracing this reality helps us navigate through our personal narratives with greater authenticity.

From the moment we wake up in the morning until we lay down to rest at night every single one of us has a stream of thoughts flowing through our minds. We even experience thoughts and emotions in our dreams. Often we underestimate the volume of thoughts that inundate us causing us to become lost in them.

At times we're not even fully aware that we're thinking. It's as if we're swimming in an ocean of our thoughts. When surrounded by this sea of thoughts it's easy to become entangled and react automatically unintentionally. We might find ourselves holding onto thoughts even when we don't wish to do resulting in a feeling of overwhelming mental activity. However it's important to remember that thoughts are not truths; they aren't always accurate despite their validity.

The time you feel yourself becoming entangled in your thoughts try observing them with curiosity than passing judgment. It doesn't matter whether they are true or false, right or wrong; simply take notice of them. Pay attention to their speed—whether they race through your mind or linger slowly—and contemplate whether they vary greatly from one another or if you find yourself repeatedly dwelling on the ones again and again.

Perhaps individuals may have a focus or theme occupying their thoughts. It's possible that some of these thoughts are unwelcome or undesired. However of immediately reacting to them take a moment to notice how your body sensations and emotions are affected when these thoughts arise. This self-awareness can help you determine if these thoughts are bringing you closer, to what matters or if they are leading you away from your personal goals. Observing and analyzing our thoughts is a skill that requires practice to learning to play an instrument. At times it may come naturally for you to acknowledge and respond to your thoughts. On occasions it might require effort on your part to create some distance from them. You might even find yourself repeatedly letting go of the thought over and over again. However it's important not to give up but persist in your efforts. Like waves flowing in the ocean thoughts continuously pass through our minds. Have the ability to influence our emotions and behaviors. Nevertheless it's crucial to understand that we are not defined by our thoughts; they do not represent who we truly are as individuals. By developing mindfulness towards our thoughts we gain distance which allows us the opportunity for intentional choices rather than impulsive reactions that we may later regret. Observing our thought processes offers us the chance to recognize how they impact our state and subsequently enables us in making decisions that align with what is truly significant, in our lives. Be it people or aspirations.

Keep in mind that you are separate, from your thoughts. Take a moment to observe your thoughts with a sense of curiosity. Give it a try at this moment.