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What the Heck is Check the Facts Anyway?

  • Writer: breakingchaosbuildingclarity
    breakingchaosbuildingclarity
  • Oct 29, 2024
  • 2 min read

Sometimes, our emotions tell stories that aren’t true. That’s where the “Check the Facts” technique comes in. Our brains often jump to conclusions when emotions are high, leading to distorted thoughts and assumptions. This technique is about taking a step back and questioning whether your reaction is based on facts or on the story your mind is creating.

 

How to Check the Facts

 

Imagine this scenario: You text a friend, and they don’t respond for hours. Instantly, you start feeling hurt, thinking, “They must not care about me,” or, “Maybe they’re mad at me.” In reality, they might just be busy or dealing with their own issues. “Check the Facts” encourages you to pause, ask yourself if your feelings are based on actual evidence, and consider alternative explanations.

 

Checking the facts can also be incredibly useful in relationships. Suppose a loved one makes a critical comment, and you feel a surge of anger or disappointment. Before reacting, ask yourself if there’s factual evidence for your interpretation or if you’re reading too much into it. This simple pause can prevent countless conflicts and misunderstandings.

 

Real-Life Application

 

Practicing “Check the Facts” requires curiosity and a willingness to question your initial reactions. When an emotion arises, ask yourself, “What evidence do I have for this feeling?” Then, try to consider other perspectives. Often, our strongest emotions are based on assumptions, not facts. By slowing down and checking the facts, you can reduce emotional intensity and make decisions that align with reality.

 

The Benefits of Checking the Facts

 

This technique helps in preventing overreactions and maintaining healthy relationships. It’s about seeing things clearly and avoiding the traps of assumption. Over time, checking the facts becomes second nature, helping you navigate life with a more balanced and accurate perspective.

 

 
 
 

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Disclaimer:

 

Dr. Rick is not a licensed medical doctor and does not represent himself as such. He holds a terminal doctoral degree in his field of study and does not provide therapeutic or medical services. Breaking Chaos Building Clarity is a coaching service that utilizes Motivational Interviewing techniques along with psychoeducational tools informed by various therapeutic modalities, including, amongst others, DBT, CBT, REBT, ACT, SBT, EBT, and Radical Acceptance. This service is designed to meet clients where they are, empowering them to define their own vision of recovery. This website is intended solely for informational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided here, as well as the services offered by Breaking Chaos Building Clarity, are not meant to replace consultation with qualified healthcare professionals. Any health concerns should be addressed by a licensed professional. Dr. Rick and Breaking Chaos Building Clarity expressly disclaim any liability for direct or indirect losses or damages arising from the use or reliance on the information provided herein or from the engagement of coaching services.

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