Confronting Politics — The Stress of Inaction — The Anxiety of Action

Abstract

Catastrophic fantasies, negative self-talk and ‘shoulds’, ‘oughts’ and ‘musts’ are all value judgements, interpretations, opinions, predictions, and views. Because they are often visualisations of the worst possible scenario individuals respond with either ‘fight’ or ‘flight’. Staying in the here and now helps individuals to be more open, honest and decisive and encourages action.

‘On many people’s tombstones you could write: born 1748, died 1772, buried 1798.’

(Benjamin Franklin)