How can I control my actions in my thoughts?

Question

There is nothing really serious about it, but it has been happening for years.

Basically, let's say I try to imagine myself walking in the street... my mind will make me fall through the floor lol, but no matter how hard I try, I cannot prevent myself from falling through the floor.

Another example that I had just now... for some reason I was thinking of putting a wire into my father's sat nav in order to connect it up to the computer, but every time I tried to imagine me putting the wire in completely, my brain would make one side of it fall back out, and vice versa.

How can I control my thoughts, and have what I want to happen in them, happen? lol.

I've never really questioned it before.

I apologise if this question is in the wrong category.

boystownhotline · Answer

It sounds like you have been going through a lot lately, and you are so strong for reaching out for help! It sounds like you have thoughts that are causing you a lot of distress, and the good news is that these thoughts can be stopped!

It is important to understand that the thoughts that you think dictate the feelings that you feel. If you think negative or sad thoughts, your brain releases chemicals that make you feel sad. If you think positive thoughts, your brain releases chemicals that make you feel happy and calm. To overcome these unwanted feelings, you must change your thought patterns.

For the next week, carry around a small notebook and write down every negative or sad thought that you have. This will help you to see how many of your thoughts are negative. The average person thinks a negative thought every two minutes! Then, after writing down the negative or sad thought, immediately write down or say out loud a positive thought. Come up with a list of positive thoughts that you can tell yourself: “I’m OK.” “Today is a good day because I am choosing that it will be.” “I am strong.” “I am beautiful/handsome.” “This too will pass, and I will get through this.”

For a more short-term solution to stopping thoughts try this: Lay down in your bed or go sit outside, close your eyes and focus on the sounds around you. Focus on the sounds around your house, dogs barking, birds chirping, cars driving by. If you mind starts to wander, pull it back by focusing on the sounds again. Do this for 2-5 minutes. This forces your mind to stop thinking thoughts, thus stopping the chemicals and hormones that your brain is producing that is causing you to feel badly. You will feel much better after doing this, as it provides immediate relief to racing thoughts.

Additionally, check out the following 99 coping skills, which can help you to refocus your thoughts on positive things: http://www.yourlifeyourvoice.org/DiscoverIt/Articles/Pages/99-Coping-Skills.aspx

Sometimes it can help to talk to someone and tell them about what you are going through. Please know that there are people who can and will help you with what you are going through. You may want to consider talking with a counselor at a hotline. There are many hotlines that are 24/7 and will work with you and situations like yours. Some even have email and/or chat if you would prefer. Hopefully, you will continue to reach out! 
Sincerely,

HW, Counselor

Tamara · Answer

Meditation is the traditional way to calm and control the mind. There are many books and websites on the basics of meditation.
I like “Meditation for Beginners” by Jack Kornfield

Anonymous · Answer

This is normal friend, but i recommend meditation it might help you think more clearly, hope this helps.

How can I control my actions in my thoughts?

3 Answers