Words I highlighted today

I’m re-reading The Places that Scare You: A Guide to Fearlessness in Difficult Times by Pema Chodron. Today I highlighted these words:

“Awareness is the key. Do we see the stories that we’re telling ourselves and question their validity?”

The voice in our head is constantly telling stories. Noticing this voice exists is an act of mindfulness. Questioning the narrative creates some distance and reminds us that we are not our thoughts. We can observe these thoughts without getting lost in our habits and patterns. We can get curious. We can practice nonjudgment. We can create space. And we can shift our focus.