Positive Cycle
Thought: I am free to be a lot better than what I’ve come from and even what I’ve done in the past.
Emotion: Relief, Happiness
Action: I make brave, smart moves. I reach out for help. I get so out of my head. I vent and write out my feelings so I can gain perspective.
Outcome: I make a new, good connection. I get a new opportunity. I feel a little bit further out of the funk. I get a little or a lot more motivation to keep changing.
Negative Cycle
Thought: You notice every little thing about people so no one’s going to want to be around you - you’re too deep all of the time, life is already hard, nobody wants to hear all you have to say.
Emotion: Fear, Confusion, Shame
Action: I ghost people. Stop texting back, put my phone on DND, stop talking, and feel really sad or overly critical about myself.
Outcome: A lot of good opportunities, bonds, and relationships end and I end up sad and in hermit mode. I begin to look unreliable.