Cognitive distortions are common, automatic thought patterns that skew our perception of reality. They are normal, and everyone experiences them from time to time. However, in extreme cases, they can contribute to mental health issues like anxiety or depression. For driven individuals, these mental traps can lead to self-criticism, exhaustion, and a skewed view of achievements.

For example, overgeneralization might turn a single missed sales goal into a broad negative judgment, such as thinking, “I always fail.” Discounting incremental progress can make steady gains seem inadequate, robbing high achievers of satisfaction and motivation. All-or-nothing thinking, meanwhile, can turn small imperfections into feelings of complete failure, heightening burnout.

Recognizing these patterns is the first step to reframing them. If others mention that you’re hard on yourself or if you struggle to accept praise, it might be time to explore these thoughts. By identifying and reshaping cognitive distortions, individuals can gain a more balanced perspective, celebrate progress, and ultimately enjoy a more fulfilling approach to personal and professional success.

Tags: # Business Success #Behavior Modification #Mental Health # Cognitive Distortions #Wendy Huffman

Connect with Wendy Huffman at https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyhuffman

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