If you've ever quit something difficult and immediately felt relieved, there's a reason for that.
When something makes us anxious, uncomfortable, or afraid, walking away removes that discomfort. For a moment, we feel better. And because relief feels rewarding, our brain can start learning that avoiding difficult things is the fastest way to feel safe again.
That's why I don't think beating yourself up for quitting helps. Understanding the pattern does. The more often we escape discomfort, the easier escaping can become. But the opposite can be practiced too. We can learn to stay with something uncomfortable for a little longer and discover that we are capable of handling more than our mind initially tells us.
This matters in depression recovery too. Taking care of yourself, asking for help, changing old habits, or facing something painful can all feel harder in the short term than avoiding them. But short-term relief and long-term healing are not always the same thing.
So next time you feel the urge to quit something that genuinely matters to you, give yourself five minutes before deciding. You may still choose to walk away, but make it a decision rather than an automatic reaction.
What's something important you've been tempted to give up on lately?
Also, if you're going through a tough time right now, I want you to know that I post daily mental health videos about how to deal with painful thoughts. So if you or anyone you know is struggling and wants help, click on one of the links below or write me if you have any questions you want me to answer:
www.instagram.com/thomas_of_copenhagen
www.tiktok.com/@thomas_of_copenhagen
~ Thanks to all. Thanks for all. ~
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