Take a weekend getaway to a quiet place where you can think. Or, if you can’t afford a vacation right now, simply isolate yourself at home or in your room for a day or so.
A stands for the activating event. Example: Your professor scolds you for submitting an assignment late. B stands for the belief. Example: You think, “I can’t do anything right. ” C stands for the consequence (or subsequent actions). Example: You don’t try as hard to get things turned in on time.
Train yourself to find the thoughts and core beliefs that drive your behaviors.
For instance, you believe, “I can’t do anything right. ” Such a belief certainly does not serve your life. You can search for other possible explanations behind it, like “I need to work harder” or “I need to develop better time-management skills. ” By challenging and reframing beliefs like this, you can ensure that your current belief system is positive and growth-oriented.
Plan to explore as much as you can. Depending on your budget, this might include visiting new states, countries, or continents. However, you don’t have to travel far to get a new perspective. Consider taking a foreign culture course at your local college or visiting a museum in your area.
They could have an alternative political perspective, be from a different culture, or have been raised with a unique lifestyle. If you are too nervous to chat with others, you might start out reading books about people who lead different lifestyles.
Challenge yourself to learn a new skill like salsa dancing. Learn another language. Eat in a foreign restaurant. Include different colors or prints in your wardrobe than usual. [5] X Research source
Visit a different church or place of worship. Start a meditation practice. Or, spend more time in nature. This might be challenging if the ideas are drastically different from what you were raised to believe. Take your exploration slowly by finding small ways to explore (e. g. reading a book versus attending a worship service) until you feel more comfortable.
You can pinpoint your personal values by reflecting on times when you felt the happiest, most proud or satisfied. What was happening during these times? Try to label the factors that contributed to these feelings. [7] X Research source In addition to reflection exercises, you can also complete a values inventory like the Personal Values Assessment. [8] X Research source
For instance, if your belief system has changed from that of family or friends, you might inform them. Say something like, “Well, actually my views on that have changed…” Then, briefly share your new position. When you share your beliefs with others, avoid doing so defensively. Simply speak with polite confidence.
A good way to respond is with open-mindedness and honesty. You might say, “I know this may come as a shock to you. But I’m happy to answer any questions you have. " Give them, and yourself, time to come to terms with a change in beliefs. Over time, your loved ones may come to support your beliefs, or at least not actively oppose them.
