There were a couple of weeks where my mind would "run away from me" with thoughts of worst-case scenarios, usually involving my family. I was dismissing the thoughts and trying not to give energy to them. However, it was beginning to wear on me. I met up with a friend, and she shared that she had dealt with a similar situation. She overcame this by speaking a word out loud to stop herself from the toxic thought train. She used the word, “Nope!” The next time I started down my runaway train of thoughts, I said, “Nope” aloud, and it helped me so much!
Since then, I have learned more about this thought-stopping tool. It stems from Cognitive Behavioral Theory, which suggests that what we think and do affects the way we feel. The thought stopping tool can help deal with your intrusive, negative, or repetitive-cycle thoughts.
When you recognize a thought that you don't want, you can:
say a word like, "stop" audibly or in your mind
do a physical action like snapping your fingers or stomp your foot
Obviously, be aware of your environment as we wouldn’t want you to look strange stomping your foot in the grocery store. The action or word you engage helps your brain to stop the thought process so you can address it. Typical stop-thought instructions can lead to suppressing the thoughts which may rebound to harass you later and the root of the thought has not been addressed. Now what do you do with the thoughts you stopped?
Invite Jesus Into Action
"...We take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." 2 Corinthians 10:5.
You have stopped the thought, now give it to Christ. Whether this thought was something originating from you or a spiritual attack, invite God to come, and give Him the thought or mindset. Even ask forgiveness if you have partnered with the negative thought. Then declare His truth over the situation. Easier said than done, right? This is your opportunity to practice and pursue the renewing of your mind so that you may discern what God’s will is. Check out these verses for more references. (Romans 12:2, Ephesians 4:23, Matthew 22:37)
"Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is any praise—dwell on these things." Philippians 4:8
Choose to dwell on God's goodness and His love for you. Depending on the situation, you may have to practice this technique a couple of times. Your mind and imagination are beautiful, especially when partnered with and redeemed by Him who made you.
I would love to hear your thoughts and questions on this topic. Please leave a comment or you may contact me for a session and I can walk you through this tool.