Comments on: How Cognitive Behavioural Therapy can help writers

By: Daphne Gray-Grant

Daphne Gray-Grant — Wed, 17 May 2017 18:24:00 +0000

In reply to Charissa Ebersole. Yes, that one helps many people. So does: "What would you say to your best friend if he or she offered the same comments?"

By: Charissa Ebersole

Charissa Ebersole — Wed, 17 May 2017 18:21:00 +0000

“What’s the worst thing that can happen?” That alone has helped me through some tough decisions. I don’t mean just listing the possible scenarios. What I mean is actually fleshing out the details, telling the story and imagining my reaction. Excellent information, Daphne. Thank you!

By: Daphne Gray-Grant

Daphne Gray-Grant — Wed, 17 May 2017 14:22:00 +0000

In reply to Rosemary Bray. Glad you found it interesting, Rosemary.

By: Rosemary Bray

Rosemary Bray — Wed, 17 May 2017 14:07:00 +0000

Very interesting – I’m going to get this book and apply the principles to my writing. Thank you!

By: Daphne Gray-Grant

Daphne Gray-Grant — Tue, 16 May 2017 22:29:00 +0000

In reply to Elizabeth H. Cottrell. Thanks for your interesting thoughts, Elizabeth. I think any work that could be described as "self-insightful" helps us become better writers. If we know how to manage our moods and our tendencies, then we stand a better chance of accomplishing what's important to us. Also, I think it makes us happier and healthier human beings, too!

By: Elizabeth H. Cottrell

Elizabeth H. Cottrell — Tue, 16 May 2017 19:40:00 +0000

This is fascinating, Daphne. On a similar theme, I really enjoyed reading Gretchen Rubin’s book BETTER THAN BEFORE. She has a simple test that tells you which of four “tendencies” you’re in—based on how you respond to expectations. In the book, she discusses habits — how to make good ones and how to break bad ones, and she stresses that you have to understand your tendency to identify the best way to make or break a habit. One size does not fit all!

The title is derived from her bottom line, which is that when it comes to self-improvement or goal setting, it’s best if we strive each day to be better than the day before rather than setting ourselves goals that may or may not be realistic.

My “tendency” is that of an Obliger — which means that I’ll bend over backwards for others but won’t keep promises to myself. So if I want to set a goal, it helps me to establish some exterior accountability — a mentor, friend, or publicly declared goal or deadline.

The four tendencies she identifies are: Upholders, Obligers, Questioners, and Rebels. All fascinating.