How Distorted Are You?

Do you over-generalize?  Think that there is only black or white solutions?  Dwell on one little negative thing so that you ruin your overall enjoyment of an experience?  Are you a fortune teller?  Or do you see catastrophe at every turn?

Grab your copy of my Cognitive Distortions worksheet so we can discuss all the unique ways we distort our experiences.

"Cognitive Distortions" are so common and you are not alone.  These distortions negatively impact our daily interactions with others and ourselves.

Recently, a client came to me to overcome childhood sexual abuse by a close family member.  We discovered that she had not discussed what happened with any of her immediate family members effectively isolating herself from her circle of support.

She had applied the big cognitive distortion - Jumping to Conclusions which includes Mind Reading and Fortune Telling.

She had convinced herself that sharing her story would result in those closest to her treating negatively in the future.

I'm happy to say that with encouragement and understanding of her personal distortions, she shared her story and discovered that her sister had also been abused.  40 years later they are closer than ever and they have each other to talk to and that's healthy and healing.

Look at your copy of the Cognitive Distortions worksheet and then openly discover how you distort your experiences and effectively, sabotage your happiness.

When you realize how distorted you are, you can start the journey to change and positive experiences.

More on this topic will follow - it's a big change that will have an incredible impact on your life.  Pay attention to your distortions.

Relaxation and Revitalization in 3-Minutes

This simple guided meditation script helps revitalize AND relax you. The deep breathing helps to oxygenate your blood while the simple focus on your breath calms you and brings you into the present moment.  Easy to use anywhere and at anytime.  Having a disagreement with your family or spouse?  This is the perfect "PAUSE" strategy to bring everyone back to the present moment in a calm state of mind.

• I’d like you to pause, take a deep breath and place your feet flat on the floor. Really FEEL your feet in contact with the ground underneath you.
• Now place your hands on your stomach and take 2-3 deep breaths, noticing your stomach rising and falling with each in and out breath.
• And when you feel comfortable, close your eyes.
• Now, as you keep breathing deeply into your stomach, I’d like you to breathe in for a count of 5, and then hold your breath for a count of 5, and breathe out slowly for a count of 5. And keep breathing, in for 5, hold for 5, out for 5.[Continue breathing pattern for 1 or 2 minutes]
• Great. Slowly bring your attention back to the room, noticing the sounds around you and begin to open your eyes.

Now, you are feeling relaxed, calm and peaceful. 

Endless Possibilities in 2014

I want to wish you a positively successful 2014 and say thanks for allowing me into your life.  I have learned so much from the clients who have shared their journey with me and I'm looking forward to the endless possibilities, opportunities and adventures that await.  

An exciting and wonderful new year is yours for the taking when you:

Remember to practice daily positivity and gratitude.  

Wake up and embrace the new day.  

Sit back at night and celebrate your accomplishments.  

Have real conversations and smile frequently.  

Laugh and share laughter.  

Encourage your inner child to come out and play.  

Choose adventure and wonder at the world around you.