The positive benefits of negative visualization, an NBA All-Star writes about his mental health journey, daily readers, a potato befriending a tomato, and more
Negative visualization, although it sounds intimidating, has made a major impact on my life.
Given the fact that I have a muscle disease that will only get worse over time, I am always dwelling on the difficulties to come. As much as I want to block out the future completely, I can't help but think about it. Over the years, I have gradually shifted my mindset from one of avoidance (burying my head in the sand) to thinking about how I would handle future weakness. Although it's still not fun to think about, at least now I can think through possible solutions, brainstorm what help I'd need, etc. In doing this, I am able to regain a sense of control.
Another benefit is that it helps me to appreciate what I still have today. Although I don't have a lot of strength anymore, I can still do many things. I still have people close to me in my life, which I don't take for granted. So, as difficult as things are, they could always be worse. Besides, who knows what the future holds? So many innovations are happening each day that the expected future hardships might not even occur.
Negative visualizations are new to me, but your description and applications made so much sense. The benefits of being prepared for the worst while appreciating the life we have are so clear after reading your post. I plan to give it a try!
Opossums and possums are the same. Australia's just being wanker-y about the spelling. Or we are. And my (roasted) potato is about to make friends with some beautifully puréed tomatoes. What a genius little darling for writing that book! There's hope for us yet! xo
Negative visualization, although it sounds intimidating, has made a major impact on my life.
Given the fact that I have a muscle disease that will only get worse over time, I am always dwelling on the difficulties to come. As much as I want to block out the future completely, I can't help but think about it. Over the years, I have gradually shifted my mindset from one of avoidance (burying my head in the sand) to thinking about how I would handle future weakness. Although it's still not fun to think about, at least now I can think through possible solutions, brainstorm what help I'd need, etc. In doing this, I am able to regain a sense of control.
Another benefit is that it helps me to appreciate what I still have today. Although I don't have a lot of strength anymore, I can still do many things. I still have people close to me in my life, which I don't take for granted. So, as difficult as things are, they could always be worse. Besides, who knows what the future holds? So many innovations are happening each day that the expected future hardships might not even occur.
Negative visualizations are new to me, but your description and applications made so much sense. The benefits of being prepared for the worst while appreciating the life we have are so clear after reading your post. I plan to give it a try!
Thanks Jenny!
Opossums and possums are the same. Australia's just being wanker-y about the spelling. Or we are. And my (roasted) potato is about to make friends with some beautifully puréed tomatoes. What a genius little darling for writing that book! There's hope for us yet! xo
I love your personal reflections on negative visualization, Chris.
Also, I am *here* for today’s potato/tomato friendship and one-eyed opossum content. 🥹
Such a great post, Chris!
I'm going to check out your Daily Reader recommendations - thank you so much.
Nice Chris! I’ve been reading a lot about stoicism lately and love Holiday’s podcast! Great newsletter as always