Many of us struggle with layers of thoughts and beliefs that influence how we feel and behave every day, often without even realizing it.
At the surface level, we experience Negative Automatic Thoughts - the quick, reflexive thoughts that pop up in response to everyday situations. These might include things like "I’m going to mess this up" before an important meeting or "No one will care about my opinion" in a conversation. These thoughts often come out of nowhere, sometimes without us being fully aware of them, and can trigger strong emotions like anxiety or self-doubt.
Just beneath these immediate thoughts, there are Underlying Assumptions—the deeper beliefs we’ve developed over time, often rooted in childhood, to help us cope with life. These assumptions act as mental rules we use to navigate the world. For example, "If I don’t get everything right, people will reject me" or "If I show vulnerability, I’ll be judged." These beliefs can make us feel safer, but they can also limit our potential and keep us stuck in patterns of fear or avoidance.
At the core, there are our Core Beliefs—the deeply held convictions about ourselves, others, and the world around us. These core beliefs often stem from past experiences and can be extremely difficult to recognize and change. For instance, beliefs like “I’m not good enough” or “I’m bound to fail” can shape how we approach challenges and affect our self-worth.
All of these layers are connected, with our core beliefs influencing our assumptions and automatic thoughts. Working through these layers can be challenging because it means confronting deep-seated fears or insecurities. It can feel vulnerable, painful, and intrusive. But understanding these layers is crucial for making sense of why we react the way we do in different situations, and it’s a key part of personal growth.
It’s important to recognize that these struggles are a natural part of the human experience, and addressing them often requires patience, self-compassion, and the support of others to navigate the discomfort that comes with confronting deeper beliefs.
One effective way to work through these layers is through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT helps us gradually peel back these layers of negative thoughts and beliefs, offering tools to manage emotions more effectively and develop healthier, more balanced thought patterns. Whether through individual sessions or group therapy, CBT provides the framework to understand and reshape the way we think, giving us greater control over our reactions and helping us build a more positive, resilient mindset. By working with CBT, we can improve our overall well-being and move toward lasting personal growth.
Contact Human Trilogy to start your journey toward transformation and emotional well-being today.
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