I have started a practice of writing out a daily contract with myself to try to not have negative thoughts for a 24 hour period. I write out the day, date, time, and my intention to have more positive and productive thoughts and refrain from "feeding" negative thoughts for a 24 hour period.

You wouldn't think this would be difficult, right? Well, it is. This last period of depression I am coming out of has contained a lot of self-loathing and self-castigation. I think this is because when I shared how I have been feeling with family and friends I received a lot of negative feedback such as the old "just snap out of it," and "you are on your own, go to the hospital ER if you feel in crisis" type of stuff.

I have been thinking in a negative way for so long that it is actually difficult to wake up and make a promise to go easy on myself, and try to have a comfortable day while completing my tasks.

Has anyone else ever tried writing out a daily contract to try to be more positive?

PS I am also now incorporating a spiritual time daily but I don't think this is the appropriate thread to discuss it.