Your Brain May Be Trying to Protect You
INstrusive thoughts Come from our brain, not from us
Key Points
Challenge Intrusive Thoughts
Understanding the Brain's Protective Mechanisms
Embracing a Value-Driven Life
You've probably heard it said before, maybe even muttered it to yourself: "Just think positively!" It sounds like the perfect remedy for our anxieties and intrusive thoughts. Yet, in reality, it's rarely that straightforward. When thoughts like "I'm not good enough," "I'm a failure," or "The world can't be trusted" start to creep in, they can quickly overwhelm us. We spend most of our energy trying to disprove them or shield ourselves from them.
Consider this: when faced with the notion of "I'm not good enough," you might instinctively avoid situations that exacerbate those feelings of inadequacy. Why bother striving for success if you're convinced of your unworthiness? Why pursue that new job opportunity or seek out new relationships? The fear of encountering anxiety, depression, or pain can become paralyzing. And so, we retreat, isolating ourselves and feel trapped in a cycle of avoidance.
But here's the kicker: by neglecting our aspirations, desires, and values, we only intensify our anxiety and depression. We end up further from the meaningful life we were striving for in the first place—a cruel irony, indeed.
What if we tried approaching our thoughts differently? What if we viewed them simply as signals from our brain, rather than absolute truths? Imagine your brain as a separate entity, distinct from your true self. When we've experienced past traumas or pain, our brains can become hypersensitive, alerting us to potential threats to shield us from further harm.
So, when your brain whispers, "You're not good enough," it's attempting to spare you from future pain by nudging you towards isolation or avoidance. And it works, doesn't it? After all, if you don't venture into new territory, you're less likely to encounter those uncomfortable emotions. But is a life devoid of challenge or growth truly fulfilling?
We can choose to meet our brains and intrusive thoughts with compassion and mindfulness. We can acknowledge what they're trying to communicate without feeling compelled to act on them. Our brains are simply doing their best to protect us, even if that protection isn't always necessary.
Disregarding intrusive thoughts doesn't guarantee a smooth ride devoid of discomfort. But it does pave the way for a more purposeful, value-driven existence—one where pursuing what truly matters to us brings genuine happiness and joy. So, dare to challenge those limiting beliefs about intrusive thinking, and embrace the journey toward a more meaningful life.
About the Author
Christopher Morrison is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Board-Certified Music Therapist. He is additionally trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR and The Bonny Method of Guided Imagery & Music. He is the owner of Mind & Melody Therapy Services, working as a psychotherapist and music therapist for ages across the lifespan. He specializes in treating anxiety, depression, addiction and grief.
