This week in class we have talked about our reactions to mistakes and success. Attributions are how we interpret and react to our mistakes. Attributions about our behavior and that of others are shaped and formed throughout our life by personality characteristics and life experience.
Genetics also have an influence. Generally speaking those with high self-esteem see their mistakes as opportunities for insight and growth, they attribute mistakes to factors that can be changed. Their style is to look for solutions rather than dwell in negative self-talk. Learning resilient skills and practicing the ABC's of resilient thought, helps us to become aware of thinking that is helpful and thinking that is not helpful. Paying attention to how negative thinking styles, old messages and beliefs prevent us from moving forward and creating change is the first step to expanding Resilience. Many of you have talked in class about becoming aware of beliefs that are not accurate, and challenging your negative attributions. Some of you have shared the experience of creating successful change out of this awareness. This week while you do your homework: pay particular attention to the possibility of learning something from each situation, challenge your self-defeating attributions, and create a new script for yourself. We look forward to hearing about your experience. Nancy and Kathie