Breaking the Cycle of Catastrophising: Strategies for a Positive Mindset
When you always imagine something terrible is going to happen, it's easier to do that if you don't fundamentally believe that you deserve a more enjoyable life.
Ever catch yourself always expecting the worst? Graham Landi and Martin Pankhurst tackle this all-too-common habit in this episode of 'Sideways'. They dive into the mindset of catastrophising, where people convince themselves that disaster is always just around the corner. But why do we do this, and how can we stop? The hosts explain that this negative thinking often starts in childhood or from past traumas, and it can be worsened by addiction.
They shed light on how our core beliefs play a big role—if you believe you don't deserve happiness, it's easy to imagine everything going wrong. But it's not all doom and gloom. Graham and Martin share practical tips to break free from these patterns. One simple trick is to rate your problems on a scale from 1 to 10, helping you see that things might not be as bad as they seem.
They also suggest focusing on your successes and even trying out a therapeutic exercise like writing unsent letters. This episode isn't just about understanding catastrophising; it's about learning how to shift your mindset to see the good in life. Perfect for anyone struggling with negative thoughts, this episode offers real-life advice and a touch of humor to help you turn things around.