We tell ourselves stories all the time. The human brain is predisposed to try to make sense of the world and the information we are surrounded by. We narrate. We story tell. So how do we manage the stories we tell ourselves? We have choices of looking to the negative or looking to the positive, but we sometimes forget that we have that choice.
So, on one of those days where you spill your drink, forget your homework, and your best friend leaves your message unread, it can be easy to spiral into the thought that the universe is out to get you. But what if the story you’re telling yourself is not quite the right one?
Reframing the narrative means taking a step back from assuming the worst is always happening to you and asking, “is there another way I can see this?” Maybe spilling your drink meant you slowed down for a moment and told yourself not to hurry so much. Maybe forgetting homework gave you a chance to ask for help, connect with your teacher and consolidate your understanding. Maybe your friend is really snowed under and the conversation you will have will help them to find the sunshine. The universe is not out to get you at all; you may just be telling yourself the wrong story.
Next time things go sideways, try flipping the script: instead of asking: “why is it always me?” ask: “what can I learn from this?” With practice, you’ll start noticing silver linings everywhere and telling yourself a better story.
Remember, you can’t always control what happens, but you can control the way you tell yourself the story. Put yourself in the centre of the best narrative, and you may just find that things start to feel brighter.
