Quote:
Originally Posted by Leah123
Ah, see, I don't consider those as core beliefs, which makes it easier for me to see them as malleable, to see they can change for the better. I think those are negative imprints, not intrinsic, and that my core is purer and stronger. The rest just requires reeducation, both experiential and educational. DBT books can help with something like that, a program of affirmations too, as far as the mechanics, and lots of other tools in my experience. Reprogramming those deeply ingrained negative cognitions and thought patterns is definitely, absolutely possible, but as you've discovered, it does take a lot of time and work, like strengthening any muscle.
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I distinguish between my core beliefs and my core self or true inner nature. I have no desire to change my inner nature. I am resilient, compassionate and brave. I see my negative core beliefs as a sort of psychic injury that cripples the full expression of my true self. Thus as I release them I become more myself which is an empowering idea. But given the deep seated nature of my self hatred, that I never remember a time before I felt ashamed ( shame is the first emotion I remember. ), it seems less like using a muscle and more like the removal of a tumor and then the healing that must come afterwards