Note: Neutral Thinking

In our group, we talked about positive thinking. Mainly, about how it doesn’t always work. And I think that’s true. Yes, having a positive outlook can help us get through hard moments. But we’re often taught that if we just think positively enough, we can overcome almost anything. Life tends to be a little more complicated than that. There’s also a big difference between being hopeful and pretending everything is fine when it clearly isn’t. Here, I’ve really liked Trevor Moawad’s idea of “neutral thinking.” Basically, it assumes that just because today is terrible, tomorrow doesn’t have to be. It’s about looking honestly at what’s happening, trying not to pile judgment on top of it, and then figuring out what you can do next.

TRY THIS: THE NEUTRAL RESET

Think of something in recovery that’s frustrating you right now.

1. What happened?
Stick to the facts.

2. What story am I telling myself about it?
Notice the judgments, predictions, or “shoulds.”

3. What can I do next?
Don’t solve the whole problem. Just focus on the next step.