Try to: Stop Using Certain Phrases
It can take years to figure out the simplest things. It took me years to realize that there are certain sentence beginnings I’m simply not allowed to finish. It took me a long time to realize that those phrases are not good for my mental health.
When I was first figuring out this technique for myself, I would ask myself, “What sentences should I stop saying?”
Here’s an example. I used to use the phrase “If only…” all the time. Then I realized it was a toxic phrase for me.
If a sentence starts “If only…” I’m not allowed to finish it. It's simple.
Give it a try yourself. Think about which sentences lead you into unhealthy thinking, and make a simple rule for yourself that you will not use those words together. I know it sounds kind of silly but it actually works. I find myself often saying, “Oh, I can’t start a sentence that way.” It works!
