Yesterday in group CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), we talked about something called the “I think – mind.” Basically, it’s the part of your brain that just keeps running all the “what ifs,” “should haves,” and “you messed up again” loops on repeat.

You know the drill — that voice that’s always shouting, “I think they hate me now” or “I shouldn’t have said that” or “I’m too much.” It’s like your brain’s worst gossip, always spinning stories that make you feel like a mess.

What’s wild is how real those thoughts feel. Like, they’re not just passing whispers; they can take over the whole day. But in CBT, we learn that thinking something doesn’t automatically make it true. Just because my mind thinks I’ve ruined everything doesn’t mean I have.

Easier said than done, right?

Here’s the kicker: if we’re not careful and mindful, that noisy “I think – mind” can start bleeding into the “I feel – mind” and then the “I behave – mind.” In other words, those thoughts don’t stay just thoughts — they start controlling how we feel and what we do. Suddenly, a “maybe I fucked up” thought turns into “I’m worthless” feeling, and then into actions we might regret.

So being aware… like really paying attention, is key. Catching the thought before it spills over, before it becomes the story we believe and live out loud.

Honestly, it’s exhausting. My “I think – mind” runs marathons every day. But just knowing it’s running a race and not actually the truth is a little bit freeing.

Interactive journaling prompt:

Take a moment and write down one recurring “I think” thought that’s been looping in your mind lately.

Then ask yourself:

• How does this thought make me feel?
• How does it influence what I do?
• Can I step back and notice this thought without letting it control me?

If you feel up to it, share your experience in the comments below — let’s talk about how to spot the “I think – mind” and keep it from running the show.

— borderlinewithwifi