Overcoming Negativity: How to Break the Cycle of Negative Thoughts
A significant portion of our unhappiness stems from the story our mind tells us about our life’s circumstances, rather than the events themselves. This insight, known as the second arrow in Buddhism, refers to the suffering we create through our negative thoughts about a situation.
The first arrow represents the actual negative experience or event that we have no control over, such as illness, loss, or conflict. However, the second arrow is the suffering we inflict upon ourselves by responding negatively with blame, shame, anger, or aversion. This second arrow causes us to repeatedly relive an experience that has only occurred once.
It’s important to recognise that we have a choice in how we react to situations, even if we cannot control them. We can choose to focus on increasing our awareness rather than getting caught up in negative thoughts that harm our mental and physical health.
To break the momentum of negative thoughts, we can start by realising that certain thoughts serve no useful function and make us miserable. We can then sit quietly and examine our thoughts, drawing energy away from them and redirecting it towards something else, such as our breath, body, or surroundings. By focusing on our inner aliveness, we can connect with our consciousness and start to let go of unnecessary thoughts.
Controlling our thoughts does not mean stifling them, but rather being aware and redirecting our attention in a positive direction. With practice, we can increase our awareness and develop resilience, reducing the mind’s ability to make us unhappy.
Remember, you are not the story in your head, but rather the intelligence that permeates and unites your body. By focusing on your inner aliveness and consciousness, you can break the cycle of negative thoughts and overcome negativity.
