Catastrophic pattern of thought: The economy has tightened in the last couple of years and layoffs are skyrocketing. What if I lose my job and can't pay my rent? I'll be out on the street and never be able to get back on my feet again. I'd be too embarrassed to ask my family and friends for help. I'd be at the mercy of strangers.
Identify the distorted thoughts: The distorted thoughts are A faltering economy will result in the loss of my job and Losing my job would leave me destitute and helpless.
Question their validity: How likely am I really to lose my job? Suppose I did. Would I really wind up homeless? Would I really save no way of picking myself up? Would it really be impossible to ask for help from family and friends? Replace them with more realistic ones: My company is showing no signs of real financial distress, and even if I did lose my job, I'd have ways of coping. Most people are still working, and I could find another job. I'm hardworking and good at what I do. I have supportive family members and friends whom I've helped in past. In couldn't pay my rent, I could stay with them until I have a little back on my feet. I have a little savings and, if worst came to worst, I could cash in my 401 (k) plan. Also, I could receive unemployment for a while if I were laid off. It would be difficult, but insurmountable. |
