Don't Let Your Thoughts Bully You

                                        Don't Let Your Thoughts Bully You


Hi friends and a spattering of strangers who will drunkenly meander their way into my blog! I'm back, so get stoked for more pretentious ramblings! 

So today's been kind of an off-day for me. I haven't started work yet so each day consists of waking up late, a 3 hour nap, blowing bubbles in my room, and ballroom dancing if I'm lucky. Downtime is of course healthy and revitalizing, but it's gotten to a mind-numbing stage. Today in particular I was just alone with my thoughts, and they decided to be jerks and turn against me. My brain rattled off for hours that I was alone because I wasn't worth anything, people dislike me, I'm going to end up making no impact on the world, etc. Your brain can be a bully if you let it, and today I ended up feeling like I deserved the onslaught of negativity.

I know this can happen to anyone, which is why I'm going all bloggy and such. If you're reading this and have ever commenced in derogatory or unkind "self-scolding," Please know you're not alone. And you have the power to funnel that criticism into something positive. Will you ever be a perfect, flower-snorting, sunshine-kissing hippie who loves every little thing about yourself? Probably not. But if you find yourself on some angry tirade about how because you didn't take out the trash you won't amount to anything, just take a second. Recognize that you're human, and that despite imperfection there are people who love you. Stop one negative thought in its bitter, whining tracks and replace it with a compliment. So maybe you didn't take out the trash on time, but you've managed to get it done every other week. Hey, that's pretty impressive. Also your outfit is on point. What I'm trying to say is that your brain can sometimes be an [expletive]. It sucks, but it means you care enough to become better. Here is a quick list of how you can change from a Negative Nancy to a Positive Petunia. That's not a thing, but I'm so going to make it one. I hope this helps, and if you personally need someone to talk (or rant) to, PLEASE don't hesitate to contact me! 

1. Use positive feedback, not criticism. If you didn't uphold your own standards on something, don't spiral into a "woe is me, I suck at life" mentality. Appreciate that your standards are so high, and give yourself specific ways you can improve. 

2. Just move on. Sometimes focusing too hard on your thoughts can make your brain turn to jelly. Nasty crab apple jelly. Delve into an activity you enjoy, or place yourself in the company of a friend. The negativity should disperse if you let your mind rest on a more positive note. 

3. Ask for a pep talk. I've personally gone to friends and asked if they could just shower me with love, and they happily accepted. I received copious amounts of written kindness, and I can always look back at the notes they've sent me and feel all warm and fuzzy again. If you're reading this and need a pep talk, please come talk to me! They are my specialty- I love complimenting people.

4. Write pretentious blogs. No but seriously, it helps me to help other people If you're the same way, reach out to people in acts of kindness. You'll be so focused on making others happy, you'll release your own self-deprecating thoughts. 

Have a lovely night, thanks for reading my thoughts! 
XOXO,
Jenn