Originally Posted by
silentrun 
Thanks. I am a chronic engager of negative thoughts. I know I'm doing it too but I cant stop. I keep asking myself what is the payoff to continue but I can't figure it out. I also suck at meditation but I'm just going to have to keep trying.
I haven't found a solution for the tendency to jump to a negative thought - that seems to be human nature to worry and to grab onto that which is difficult. It gets exhausting if I don't cut it off immediately.
Training myself to stop doing that is a lifelong pursuit.. Best I can do is try to flip the script as soon as I realize I'm doing it. That's why my three line thing works. I can remember it, it's fast, it starts me on the right path. After I say that I can add to it in my head. Prayers, poems, a good positive quote. That's what I need to
practice dwelling on. I think that's why Gratitude lists are so helpful. I have to keep that brain involved in positive beautiful things.