by Missy Curry, Refuge Center Intern
To increase optimism we need to dispute our own pessimistic thoughts. The first step is to recognize we are having the pessimistic thought using the ABCDE model. A is for adversity, B is for beliefs, C is for consequences of the belief, D is for disputation of our routine belief, and E is for energy derived from disputing the pessimistic belief successfully. To recognize that our belief may or may not be factual is a level of awareness that will allow us to check the accuracy of the belief. Distancing ourselves from our pessimistic and reflexive beliefs will allow us to say the kinds of things to self that we so easily say to others. Like most “new” things this will take practice but the rewards will be worth the effort! Our therapists at The Refuge Center are available to help you move to a more optimistic outlook. Contact us at www.therefugecenter.org or call us at 615.591.5292.
Source: Seligman, M.E.P. (2002). Authentic happiness. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster.
