Introduction to Thinking Errors

Thinking Errors also known as Cognitive Distortions

are tricky little misconceptions that our brains lead us to believe are 100% true. At times our thinking errors may be rooted in some truth, but more often they are an ounce of reality and a pound of fallacy.
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Thinking errors tend to be our automatic or initial thought. ​

​For example, I see someone whispering and my first thought is - They must be talking about me. 
I really had no good reason for thinking that. 
Perhaps in the past people have been whispering about me and thus my experience plays a role in me adopting this thinking pattern. 
However, there have been many other instances where people were whispering and it was not about me. So I could correct this thinking error by reminding myself of such instances and realistically coming to the conclusion that it is unlikely they are whispering about me. 

The above example is a cognitive distortion called:

Assuming

​​Assuming is a thinking error that is trademarked by making a snap judgement without all of the facts. 
​And we do it all of the time!

"So and so didn't smile when they walked pass me in the cafeteria, I must've done something to upset them."

"Well, that text message was short. I guess my friend is in a bad mood."

"My boss is spending more time with my coworker. I must not be doing a very good job."

All of these examples have one thing in common; They're lacking context!
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Take each example and add some additional information. 

Perhaps you didn't notice that "so and so" wasn't wearing her glasses. She had a million things on her mind and simply did not see you. 

Your friend is in a great mood, she was just about to jump in the car to run the kids to soccer practice and wanted to send a quick text before she took off.

Your boss is spending more time with your coworker, because she needs more help than you do. You're doing such a great job that your boss trusts you to work independently. 
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CHALLENGE: BE MINDFUL OF YOUR THOUGHTS FOR THE NEXT 24 HOURS. SEE HOW MANY TIMES YOU CATCH YOURSELF MAKING AN ASSUMPTION. THEN PRACTICE CORRECTING IT WITH MORE CONTEXT.

Come back next week as we take a look at another cognitive distortion:
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Catastrophyzing 

We hope you enjoyed today's message. Please tell someone about Your Praying Friend, but  make sure to tell everyone about Jesus!
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