Stop Letting Your Past Win
I don’t always remember my dreams but when I do... they’re usually bad ones.
I’m not sure the exact definition of a nightmare but I do wake up in a panic.
The other night I had one about water again.
More specifically - water in the basement.
Even more specifically - a flooded basement.
3 years ago, while we were out of town, a pipe broke in our basement. And filled it.
Literally filled it (...more on that another time).
Since then, I’ve had sporadic dreams about flooding.
As much work as I’ve done to move on from that situation in a healthy way... I still have anxious moments and thoughts that occur.
Have you ever had a situation from your past “haunt” you a bit?
I don’t have all the solutions (clearly) on how to make those cease.
But I do have what I believe are practical and helpful tips on how to deal with those unwanted thoughts when they come.
1. Talk about it.
I mean out loud. This doesn’t have to be with or to anyone but simply vocalizing that you have had the thought. Yes, I said it - talk to yourself!
We’ll all had moments where we realize how silly or serious something can sound when we actually say it out loud. Studies have shown how vocalizing your thoughts helps you control your mindset.
It’s funny - this works the same way as tickling. You can’t fully tickle yourself because in your brain you know what you’re about to do. But when someone unexpectedly tickles us, we are caught off guard and usually laugh (unless you’re one of those robot types who remain silent... I don’t trust those people).
2. Tell the truth about it.
Maybe your unexpected thought is from a painful memory. Or maybe it’s a negative decision (or pre-decision). Either way, when you talk about it: Tell the truth.
Example:
“This was an extremely difficult time in our lives. But today, my house is not flooded. Today, I am choosing to focus on moving forward.”
When we combat yesterday’s problems with today’s truth, we can face tomorrow with confidence.
It may read like a cliche. But sometimes even I have to admit that cliches are what they are for a reason.
This practice has helped me.
I hope it helps you too!