Do you ever stop and wonder if something else is driving your behavior?
One moment, you’re having a great day, and then it happens. Something (an event) causes you to spiral into a series of negative thoughts and beliefs about the event. Before you know it, you shut down, withdraw, or isolate yourself. Maybe you get defensive, shirk responsibility, and begin to blame others.
What is going on here?
(A) First, there was an activating event.
(B) Next, the event triggered a series of negative, irrational thoughts or beliefs.
(C) This led to a consequence.
This behavioral pattern is often referred to as the ABCs of therapy.
The activating event led to negative thoughts or beliefs, which led to problematic behaviors and responses.
What can I do to change?
If you want to change, it is essential to recognize and understand the process.
Changing these responses won’t be easy. If you are willing to do the work, you can learn to spot the events and (D) do things differently.
The D is what Debra Fileta refers to as “do it differently” in A-B-C-D.
Look, I know this will be incredibly tough! But if you dig in and put the right support system in place, I believe you can change!
If you do not have a support system, I highly encourage you to check out the Overflow Community.
