So I’ve been reading about how the brain evolved to be “negative”, so to speak, for survival. The example given was there were two important types of mistakes our ancestors could make. 1. Assume there’s a tiger in the bushes and there isn’t one. 2. Assume there isn’t a tiger in the bushes and there IS one. The first mistake caused needless anxiety. The second mistake was a life and death error.

So my brain opts for needless anxiety over making a life and death error.... and it’s extremely efficient at it. It makes sense to me though and it does still protect me in a way. For example, when I meet new people it’s best to be cautious and not blindly trust everyone and every situation...

I’m trying to notice when my brain is taking a negative turn during the work day and tell myself it’s just a self-protective mechanism and, for the most part, nothing more. If there’s a legitimate red flag... and my brain is sounding off alarms for a good reason... I can take note but I don’t have to become anxious over it... I am also learning to tune in and listen to my own better judgement and not let my emotions take over.

I see myself taking the negative pathway like it’s a default in my brain. I feel myself wanting to go that direction during stressful and busy work days. I do it all day long. Even during quiet times at home on weekends I feel worries and concerns creeping in. Does everybody experience this or is my brain just particularly negative and anxious I wonder?

I’m starting each day with some energetic positivity. I’m a little drained by the end of the day and I am not in the mood for it sometimes... but I did have several moments of positive reflection during the day yesterday. I did notice I was less emotional, less tired and my conversation with others was less negative.

I’m fortunate to have the ability to work on change for the better. I appreciate the friends I have here to listen and support me. The older I get the more I greatly appreciate every act of kindness. It’s true that no act of kindness is too small. I didn’t do this when I was younger and it feels extremely important to me now.