Know thyself

[ivory]

For those of you who have been at this some time I'm curious to hear what's helped you, what practices and/or systems you've adopted, and any theories you subscribe to. I'll start with what helped me. I've had three different therapists and have a background in Zen. The system that resonated with me the most comes from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). The three basic tenants are: Be present, Open up (to physical and emotional discomfort), Do what matters (have a value system). To elaborate...

 

1. Get clear on your values in the following areas:

• Relationships
• Health
• Career
• Growth (emotional development)
• Education
• Finances
• Recreation (or leisure)
• Spirituality

2. Know your challenges in each of the above areas paying particular attention to fear, complacency, and negative self-talk.

3. Know how you distract yourself from achieving your goals and adhering to your commitments (youtube, mind-numbing activities, etc)

4. Journal daily documenting what you did well, what you learned, and what you can improve on. Compare notes to the previous day.

5. Rehearse any difficult emotions you experienced each day and feel them fully.

6. Meditate daily

 

Lastly, my Zen teacher would repeat over and over again. "See all of life's challenges as the path." This was a game changer for me.

Edited November 30, 2018 by ivory

[Myrox]

Wow. You seem to be well underway. I’m new and all that sounds exhausting but I’m hoping to get there someday.

[ivory]

It's all about taking action, pacing, and refining.