Shut Up Brain

Little did I know, returning to school at a vintage age was a gift to myself. I've learned of so many exceptionally talented and successful people who struggled with various subjects, with attention problems, those who struggled with confidence (some have an abundance of confidence), many talented people who chose not to listen to negative narratives on loop running through their brain. Either they had the support system to recognize poor thought patterns and behaviors, or learning to overcome all obstacles was like saying sic 'em to a dog.  These are amazing individuals and we learn from them.

 

I told you a few days ago we would address the following:

 

What Not to Say to Yourself

Would You Say That to Anyone Else?

Shut Up Brain, You Don't Know Me

 

Researching and writing my last research paper before moving to Wyoming, learning styles, I came to understand my personal styles well. Research provides insight if we choose our subject wisely. I often visited the writing lab, I wish I still had access to invaluable editors and professors. One such lady had edited an educator's book, themed learning for children, using pirates. I smile. This spoke to me, incorporating fun with teaching and learning, and baby I incorporated fun into every area of my new learning experiences — color, texture, fragrance, music, visuals — anything positive to make tracts deeper, indelible, in my brain. 

 

Here's the first thing not to say to yourself: I can't. I struggle with this to this day, and I'm too old for nonsense. The truth is I CAN, empirical evidence says I can, data says I can. Imposter Syndrome I'll not allow you to take up residence in my thought processes. Do you welcome obtrusive thoughts to live rent free in your head? Pay attention, stop negative repetitive thoughts and behaviors. Gently teach your children to redirect thoughts, maybe with actions rather than words.

 

Essential Study Strategies was recommended to me by a trusted advisor when I returned to school. Read it for you, for your children, for your class. If you already know and apply these strategies, pass them on to others. If not, read this book. It's short but dense. My personal favorite takeaways, without digging out my book, are the use of the Cornell Note Taking System. And color. I take notes, reviewing notes at the end of each day, or at the latest, the following day. Notes are color coded by me for easy and quick reference. 

 

Next, would you say that to anyone else? Stupid...moron...idiot...Most of us most of the time (ha!) would not say these words to others. There are limited exceptions. We are what we think. Change your feedback to you. 

 

Shut up brain, you don't know me. If your brain is constantly throwing shade, brick-wall gloomy, pessimistic thinking, stop all unwelcomed thoughts. 

 

You are what you think.

 

You aren't stupid.

 

You CAN.

 

Up next: Pirates and Ordinary Folks