"Why Me?"

I honestly thought I was going to be heading to Corinne Crabtree's business school this weekend in June. If you listened to my podcast called "Back to the Basics", you know that was my plan in March.

Well, as always, the Universe has other plans in store for us. 

This week's podcast was recorded in Cleveland as I have the privilege of accompanying a loved one as they undergo a life sustaining procedure. 

When life happens against our intended plans, it's easy to get stuck on the "why me?" narrative. 

I hope this week's podcast can shed light on how we can reframe our focus so that we are not living in the 'anticipation lane' all the time. 

Here are some helpful ways to shift your thinking when stuck on "Why Me?" thinking loop:

When you find yourself thinking "why me?" and experiencing negative thoughts or emotions, it's important to manage your mind and shift your perspective. Here are some strategies that can help:

1. Recognize and accept your emotions: It's normal to feel frustrated, upset, or overwhelmed when faced with challenging situations. Allow yourself to acknowledge and accept these emotions without judgment. It's okay to feel what you're feeling.

2. Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with kindness and understanding. Instead of being self-critical, offer yourself words of encouragement and support. Remind yourself that everyone faces difficulties at times, and it's not a reflection of your worth or capabilities.

3. Challenge negative thoughts: Question the validity of your "why me?" thoughts. Understand that life is full of ups and downs, and unfortunate events can happen to anyone. Ask yourself if there is any evidence to support the belief that you are singled out for misfortune. Often, you'll find that this belief is based on a biased perception.

4. Reframe the situation: Try to reframe the situation in a more positive or realistic light. Look for any potential silver linings, lessons, or growth opportunities that may arise from the experience. Focus on what you can learn and how you can become stronger through the challenges you face.

5. Practice gratitude: Cultivating a gratitude mindset can help shift your focus from negativity to positivity. Take a moment to reflect on the things in your life that you are grateful for, even amidst difficult circumstances. This can help you develop a more balanced perspective.

6. Seek support: Reach out to trusted friends, family members, or a therapist to talk about your feelings and gain a fresh perspective. Sharing your thoughts and concerns with someone who can offer support can be incredibly helpful.

7. Take care of yourself: Engage in activities that promote self-care and well-being. This can include exercise, spending time in nature, practicing mindfulness or meditation, journaling, or engaging in hobbies that bring you joy. Taking care of your physical and mental health can positively impact your mindset.

Remember that managing your mind takes time and practice. Be patient with yourself and give yourself permission to experience the emotions that arise. With time, you can develop a more resilient mindset and navigate through challenging situations with greater ease.

What do you do when you are stuck thinking this way?