AI Answer
Rumination and self-reflection are closely related but differ in their outcomes. Rumination is a repetitive thought process where individuals dwell on negative emotions and experiences, often leading to distress and unhappiness. On the other hand, self-reflection involves purposeful contemplation of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, with the intention of gaining self-awareness and insight. In the context you mentioned, it seems like you have recognized the habit of rumination within yourself, particularly in seeking information that validates negative self-concepts. It's positive that you are aware of this pattern, as it can be a first step towards shifting your thought process. To shift the negative self-dialogue, tools like distraction, micro-meditation, and practicing self-soothing skills can be beneficial. Distraction techniques involve engaging in activities that redirect focus away from negative thoughts. Micro-meditation, on the other hand, involves short moments of mindfulness and relaxation to interrupt and change patterns of rumination. Additionally, developing self-soothing skills can be important. This may involve learning to be kind to yourself, practicing self-compassion, and challenging negative self-beliefs. Seeking support from a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor, can also provide valuable guidance in developing effective self-reflection and managing rumination.

Unlocking Happiness with Friends with Robert Mack

Yeah , I would say that um I definitely was a ruminated , right ? So , you know , statistically , scientifically , women tend to ruminate more than men , which means you just , you know , you're sort of self reflective but not in a necessarily positive way . You think about what you're thinking about , you think about what you're feeling and you go around and around in circles and I was definitely experiencing that even as a little kid , you know , I would just remember going in circles about that .

Unlocking Happiness with Friends with Robert Mack

Did you , do you feel like that noise was something other than depression or was it something you were struggling with as you ? Yeah , I would say that um I definitely was a ruminated , right ? So , you know , statistically , scientifically , women tend to ruminate more than men , which means you just , you know , you're sort of self reflective but not in a necessarily positive way .

Unlocking Happiness with Friends with Robert Mack

So , you know , statistically , scientifically , women tend to ruminate more than men , which means you just , you know , you're sort of self reflective but not in a necessarily positive way . You think about what you're thinking about , you think about what you're feeling and you go around and around in circles and I was definitely experiencing that even as a little kid , you know , I would just remember going in circles about that . It's like having your will stuck in the mud and just keep hitting the gas harder and harder to try to get out .

Unlocking Happiness with Friends with Robert Mack

It is a habit . It is a thought process is a , is a habit . You've been perfecting for years , years to unwind that .

Unlocking Happiness with Friends with Robert Mack

In fact , you will weed out information that contradicts your self concept . So if you have a negative self , self concept will actually go out and seek unwittingly unconsciously , sometimes wittingly unconsciously information that validates the negative view you have of yourself . That's why it's so important to help shift that you and you need support .