Mind Assessment
20-Minute Exercise
This is a multi-week mind assessment exercise. Like any other diagnostic, the intent is to size up the situation so we know what needs work. Here are step-by-step instructions:
Find a quiet, comfortable place to sit.
For ten minutes, pay attention to your thoughts. Make them your focal point. Don’t direct them in any way. Just notice where they go. Is there a persistent talk track in place? Do you dwell on something repeatedly? You can do this with your eyes open or closed. Try both.
Write down your findings in a journal for the following ten minutes. Be honest with yourself but not judgmental. Act as an objective observer. Remember, no one else is going to see any of this. The more truthful you can be, the better.
Do this a dozen times over the next two to four weeks at different times of the day. When you are done, take stock of everything you’ve written. Are there any patterns that are particularly unhelpful or destructive? Resist the temptation to label them as “anxiety,” “depression,” or “PTSD.” Instead, aim for a more nuanced understanding of exactly what you are doing without placing it in a category. This approach avoids self-diagnosis and allows for a more open exploration of your thoughts. Keep these notes for future reference during other exercises.
I’ve recorded an audio track below to help guide you.
DISCLAIMER: RARE SENSE® content is not medical advice. Nor does it represent the official position or opinions of any other organization or person. If you require diagnosis or treatment for a mental or physical issue or illness, please seek it from a licensed professional.