Is your brain lying to you? Cognitive distortions series
Sometimes our brains tell us lies about our reality. It's not always easy to recognise when it's happening, but chances are it's happened to you at some point. Have you ever thought that your other half NEVER listens to you? Or that EVERYTHING is ALWAYS your fault? Is that really true?!
What are cognitive distortions?
Cognitive distortions are thinking patterns that our brains continually reinforce until those patterns become an unconscious habit that's hard to break. And they can really get in the way. If they're reinforced often enough, and for long enough they can cause an increased likelihood of anxiety, depression and all sorts of relationship difficulties.
Research shows that a distorted thinking pattern usually develops as a way of handling a negative event or stressor. Whether it's a single event, or an experience that you live through over a period of time, the more it impacts you, the more likely it is that you'll develop a form of cognitive distortion to help you and your brain cope.
What are the most common cognitive distortions?
In this series over the next couple of weeks, I'm sharing information about some of the most common cognitive distortions with you. We'll look at what they are and how they might show up in your life, career or team so that you can start to become more aware of them. I'll also share some tools and activities that you can use to help you begin to change your unhelpful patterns.
I'll put links to each article in the series below are they are published, you can also follow along in real time on Instagram (Rachel @ Rachel Lee Coaching). Come and say hi, ask any questions, or let me know how helpful you're finding the information if you do choose to stop by over there - I'd love to hear from you!
- 1. Polarised thinking
- 2. Emotional reasoning
- 3. Negative mental filtering
- 4. Personalising
- 5. Thinking in 'shoulds'
- 6. Mind reading
- 7. Discounting positives
Further support with distorted thinking patterns
I work with clients to help them to become aware of their distorted thinking patterns in a personal, career and team context. If you'd like support in making real, lasting change to your thoughts, behaviour or beliefs, book your FREE 30 minute call now.
*NB - I'm not a therapist*
Sometimes, in order to beat a cognitive distortion that is really deep-set, it requires psychological healing. This work needs to be carried out with a trained therapist to give you the best chance possible of getting the outcome you're looking for. If you're not sure which would be best for you, get in touch for a chat - we'll work it out together.
