I have to mention that I've sort of always known of such "distortion" types and when I met with Burns' book I hem-hawed it.


That was until I was able to separate myself from these distortions. My issue was that I was so consumed with one or more of these 10 at any given time that I couldn't "back up" and see it. I separated myself using meds...I had never used meds before and considered them as crutches for the "weak". Well, meds in my case simply help my brain take a pause. Before I react to things now I take a pause think about it and then decide what to do. Now, this distortions list is near me always and as I prepare to act or react to things I skim the list and look for pitfalls.


One more trick, as if you asked me: I've been journaling for three years now and I use that many times to write into my journal my immediate reactions or thoughts to something and then its "out of me". After that I seem to decide a little better.


I would suggest that this list stays in your purse, planner, wallet, whatever. and before or as these feelings come, grab that list. At least you'll pause to read it.