You Are Not Your Negative Thoughts: Understanding Anxiety And Self-Identity
“You are not your negative thoughts, you are not your anxiety” serves as a powerful reminder that our thoughts and feelings do not define our essence. This article aims to explore the relationship between negative thoughts, anxiety, and self-identity while providing insight into how to separate oneself from these experiences. Understanding Negative Thoughts Negative thoughts often arise from a myriad of experiences, including past traumas, societal pressures, or even biological factors. They can manifest as self-doubt, criticism, or pessimism. For many individuals, these thoughts can feel overwhelming and inescapable. However, it is crucial to recognise that having negative thoughts is a part of being human—everybody experiences them at some point. The key is to understand that thoughts are not inherently true or false; they are simply mental events that can be observed. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) emphasises this concept by encouraging individuals to challenge and reframe the...
