One Question 💊, to Break Anxious Thoughts

You know that mental loop? The one that replays the awkward moment or spirals into 12 worst-case scenarios?

There's a name for it: rumination. And here's a tiny trick that cuts right through it:

Ask yourself: "Is this helpful?"

Not: is this true? Not: is this possible? Not: is this important?

Just: Is this helpful?

✦ ✦ ✦

Why this works:

Most anxious thoughts fail the "helpful" test immediately. Your brain gets the message: This isn't serving me right now.

What to do when the answer is "no":

• Take one deep breath

• Gently shift to something concrete: a task, a walk, a song, a snack

• Return to now

🔆 Invitation for Today 🔆

Catch one rumination spiral. Ask the question. Let it go. “Helpful” is your ultimate compass.

Share this article. Brighten someone’s day.

^{_{We only recommend products and services we love. If you purchase through an affiliate link, you don’t pay a higher price, and we’ll earn some coffee money, which we promise to drink while continuing to support your journey.}}