Thoughts, Emotions and Behaviors: They are Connected!

Be careful of what you are thinking. Dysfunctional thought patterns will lead you to feel negative emotions. Those emotions then turn into behavioral reactions. For example, if you are continually thinking your significant other is cheating on you, you will begin to experience a rush in emotions. These emotions using this scenario could range between anger, guilt, shame, emptiness, and possessiveness. Once the feelings are felt you will then act out those emotions behaviorally. Behaviors could include, withdrawal, verbal disconnect, passive-aggressive behaviors and or active aggression. This cycle will continue with each new triggering thought you have.

How do we stop negative thoughts??

Every time you have an unhealthy thought, think to yourself is there any truth to this thought? Start by confronting your fears. What exactly are you afraid of? And how could those fears be manifested in your thinking. Get clear on want you want. Once you know what you want the reality of your situation will kick in, and you’ll be able to understand changes that need to be made in your life. Immerse yourself with motivation and Inspiration. This can be in the form of people, books, spiritual influence, positive podcast, and blogs.

Don’t allow negative thoughts to consume you. Get a handle on it. Remember to examine your thoughts, know your fears, understand your desires, and surround yourself with positivity.

“Trust in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart and do not rely on your own insight or understanding” Proverbs 3:5

Ranika Martin, MSW, LGSW, CBT+