
Sunday, the designated day of rest, I awoke
to find the unwelcome presence of my judgmental headmistress saboteur perched on my pillow. It was 7.00am! I had planned a little lie in, after all it was weekend. “What on earth are you doing here” I asked – in my head – as I urged her to scoot over to wait by the door, hoping that I could grab another 40 winks. However, my hopes were swiftly dashed, as moments later she reappeared, armed with a lengthy to do list and a pen at the ready. It wasn’t long before it felt like each task from the mental to-do list had been written on post-its and stuck to my forehead - chores – doodles – pressies – admin – and a heap of other stuff plastered across my face.
Noticing that my head was about to burst, I faced two choices: – surrender to the chaotic flurry and embrace a day full of negative energy and irritation – much to the delight of my Headmistress – or turn the other cheek and search for a more soothing option. I chose the latter, closed my eyes, focused on my breath and simply began to count – each breath, from 1-5 and after 5 I started again.
Slowly, breath by breath the voice of my hyper headmistress became a faraway distant cry. It wasn’t long before her protests faded into silence, and I happily coveted those extra 40 winks.
Engaging in a dialogue and picturing your inner critics/saboteurs can prove to be a powerful technique for regaining control of daily situations and help make your day to day so much better.
The first steps to understanding your saboteurs:
Throughout your day, pay attention to any negative thoughts that arise.
When you notice them, jot them down.
Consider what these thoughts saying - sneaky saboteurs often begin with words like - Don't, 'Can't,' 'No,' 'Shouldn't,' 'Never'
Get curious about what the negative voice is warning you about.
Challenge the negative advice and reflect on why you disagree.
Curious to learn more? Interested in unraveling the mysteries of your sneaky saboteurs? Picture gaining control over your negative thoughts to pave the way for a more fulfilling and happy life. I’m Annie Peutrell, an accredited Co-Active personal coach, and I invite you to kick off your shoes and join me on The Serious Sofa so we can explore new ways of thinking, being and doing.
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