Boundaries for the Mind

Should you place boundaries for your thoughts?

Boundaries of thoughts (the mind) are just as important as physical (body) and emotional (heart) boundaries. It’s important to take note of, and manage, our own thoughts – to fix our minds on things that will bring peace and positive energy, not on things that will cause us anxiety or deplete us.

Do you ever wonder what’s really going on underneath the panic and anxiety? Unfortunately, you will notice that it is challenging to even stop quickly enough to think about it… to catch the flame before it becomes a fire. To ponder – What are the actual thoughts and feelings underneath the anxiety and fears? Unfortunately, instead, it is easier to just act out on the anxiety. Once an “incorrect” or “paranoid” thought enters into the mind, it is hard to stop it.

So, when is the time to intervene then? How about when the thoughts haven’t entered yet…, is there time to reflect? I would say yes. The key then is to find out what the “trigger” usually is – and move quickly. Meaning, if you know going to a certain place, or seeing certain people, or talking to a certain someone today is going to cause anxiety because you’ve seen it happen before, then catch yourself the moment before you get there. Reflect and think about your feelings before any action takes place. Take note of – and inspect – your emotions.

Difficult Circumstances Reveal our True Affections

When circumstances seem to make no apparent sense…

And things seem to be falling apart –

Go Deeper.
Ask yourself… why does THIS bother me more than another? Allow a season of release: release of anger, release of frustration, release of the hurt… but there comes a point where a closer look at the root will be much more beneficial and lasting than obsessing over the surface concerns. Tackling the root emotion will quicken the recovery process and move you towards sane, stable, productive responses and the rebuilding can begin.

Get Re-Centered.
Revisit your vision. If you don’t have a vision for your life, start thinking about creating one.
Where is my focus? What’s my purpose? Where do I want to go? What direction?

Learn and Grow from this Experience.
Why might these circumstances be happening?
What is being revealed about what really matters to me?

Check in on how you handle difficult situations.
Where do I want to turn for relief?
If it feels like a wrong turn, WHY do I want to turn there?
If it is good for you, keep doing it, and give yourself some credit for choosing a lasting relief (a network of friends who can support you), and not a temporary pleasure (i.e. using a substance).

These are just some thoughts and questions to ask ourselves when we feel stuck… to get us moving once again – towards growth. To get us back on track, focused, and enjoying the path we’re on.