Tools for reframing

A few weeks ago I wrote about an idea that came from a discussion I had had. The idea was about placing yourself in a more capable mindset when feeling doubt or inadequacy in yourself. I have been playing with this idea the past 2 weeks. One place I feel capable and have very few limitations is on a JiuJitsu mat. I can think clearly and I can focus on what I have/have yet to accomplish. The main thing that has helped me deal with feelings of inadequacy is placing my focus on milestones. I don’t focus on every little thing I’ve accomplished or trait that I possess. That would take too long. I want to group positive traits into an object or even an event. When I’m afraid of public speaking, I think of the time I had a crowd of 250 people cracking up for 15 minutes during the final round of a college campus-wide comedy competition. If I can stand up in front of that many people and tell jokes, I can talk in front of 20 people for 5 minutes. The comedy competition was my milestone and my focus revisits that memory to let me know I am capable and gives me a feeling of pride in myself. I can also focus on an object. When I have been feeling inadequate in some aspects of my life recently, I focus on my belt and the individual pieces of tape wrapped around the tip. I think that no slouch could have come this far mentally and physically. There is no reason why I should under-estimate my abilities in other facets of life. If you have a memory or material possession that you cherish because of its significance in letting you know you can accomplish great things, focus on that milestone the next time you feel doubt to reignite your positive energy. EyeRoll4 the ability to visit and surpass milestones.