We’re back with our series on cognitive distortions and how we can use mindfulness and positive psychology to combat these thoughts that can deter us from succeeding.
Cognitive Distortions are irrational thoughts and biased perceptions we internalise and subconsciously reinforce over time. These thought patterns are often subtle and are difficult to recognise as they are so ingrained within ourselves. All cognitive distortions are:
Tendencies or patterns of thinking and believing;
False and inaccurate; and
Have the potential to cause psychological damage.
The wonderful thing about mindfulness and being aware of our thoughts and behaviours is that once we have identified them, we have the ability to change them if they’re no longer serving us. So let’s discuss the sixth one!
FORTUNE TELLING
This distortion is very similar to that of mind reading, as it refers to the tendency to make and believe in conclusions and predictions based on little to no evidence. In the dancing industry, this could look like not auditioning because you believe that you won't get the part anyway, or not taking a class because you think that you will suck at it or won't enjoy it like the ones you're more comfortable in taking.
The issue with this distortion is that it limits our experiences and therefore our growth as not only dancers, but as humans. We are all an amalgamation of our lived experiences as well as our biological makeup, and when we engage in more experiences, both positive and negative, we learn more about who we are, what we are capable of, and our preferences to ensure that the life we choose to lead is an enjoyable one.
That extra stress and/or negativity that surrounds these conclusions and predictions can have an astounding impact on our mental and physical health, and the worst part is is that it's self inflicted! We have a choice as to where we expend our energy (even when it doesn't seem like it!); why would we use it to limit our experiences and understanding of our self-worth?
We can never truly know the outcome of an audition, show, or class; we can only identify and accept what is in the present. Any energy that we spend on predictions and conclusions is energy wasted on appreciating who we are and where we are at in our lives.
Go after opportunities and be grateful as they arise, because it should never be about the outcome, but what you learned along the way. Your future self will always be thankful for the past and present you - just live!
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