Have you ever felt like your problems are a part of who you are? What if I told you there’s a way to change that perspective? This is where externalization comes in—a therapeutic strategy that helps you see your issues as separate from yourself, giving you the power to address them more effectively.
Let’s say you’re struggling with anxiety. It’s common to think, “I am an anxious person.” But externalization reframes this to: “You are experiencing anxiety.” This small change in language can make a big difference. Your anxiety isn’t you; it’s just something you’re dealing with right now.
With externalization, you can start to see your problems as something outside of yourself. You can talk back to your anxiety, negotiate with it, and find ways to live alongside it without letting it control you. This empowers you to take charge.
In therapy, externalization might involve giving a name to your problem, like “the Worry Monster,” drawing it, or writing a letter to it. Whatever the method, the goal is for you to recognize that you are not your struggles.
Remember, externalization is more than just a technique—it’s a journey towards finding resilience and self-compassion. It’s about reminding you that you’re the author of your story, and you have the strength to change the narrative. As your therapist, I’m here to support you in reclaiming your story and moving forward to a brighter chapter.
You are not your problems. You have the strength to rewrite your story.
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