About This Practice
Where we put our focus in each moment can greatly impact how we navigate caregiving. When we notice the positives in situations, or the lessons in challenges, we can move about our lives in a different way. This practice will challenge you to find the meaning in moments that feel hard. By exploring where we put our focus in each moment, we can find freedom in our experience and greater resiliency when facing challenges.
Steps
Reflecting on challenges
Think of a challenging situation that you recently faced. Write down three things that made that situation challenging. Now, write down three things that you appreciated about that moment. Now look at both of your lists and consider, “Which am I more likely to focus on and why?”
Take stock of your thoughts
Pick a day this week to pay close attention to your thoughts in challenging situations and keep a running list of what your mind focuses on in those moments. Do you tend to think of situations as the glass half full or half empty? Try to notice your thoughts without any judgment or feeling as if you “should” think a certain way.
Reflecting on your focus
Reflect on what you noticed during your day of thought-tracking. What feelings come up when you consider what you focus on in those situations? Are there any shifts you’d like to make in what you focus on in each moment?
Challenge yourself
See if you can shift your focus during a challenging or stressful moment in the next week. Write down how it went, how you felt during and after, and any feelings that come up. Be gentle with yourself and know that it’s okay if this feels hard or if you don’t feel successful the first time you try it. Reflect on this process with your advocate during your next meeting.