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 fifth one!
MIND READING
This distortion is one of the “jumping to conclusions” distortions outlined by David Burns. this typically manifests as a belief that we “know” what another person is thinking. Whilst it is possible to gauge an idea of what another person is thinking, this distortion refers to the negative interpretations we jump to.
An example of this for dancers might be reading the expressions of the panel in an audition and believing that they don’t like you, or not receiving comments or feedback from your teachers and believing that you’re not good enough to be noticed.
There are many issues with mind reading and jumping to these conclusions. For one, a belief that someone doesn’t like you or your talent can cast a shadow not only over your experience, but also your view of yourself. You might start to lose motivation or effort as you believe no amount of effort will change their or your mind, or you may close yourself off from forming relationships and connections that can help you in the industry.
Until the human race figures out how to use telepathy, we will never truly know what goes on in the minds of others. When feeling these concerns, the best thing to do is ask; ask for feedback and advice! Taking action and control in these situations reinforces your strength in character, and is considered a positive trait that industry professionals look for.
The other thing to keep in mind is that it doesn’t truly matter what other people think. What really matters is what you think of yourself. The mind-body connection is so strong that what you think impacts how your body behaves and operates. Be kind and true to yourself; acknowledge and accept it with love and kindness, and you’ll find the energy you give yourself is the same energy that you attract.
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