I tend to engage in a cognitive pattern known as catastrophizing, which involves anticipating the worst possible outcome in any given situation. This tendency is rooted in a traumatic experience I had during childhood, which left me with a hyper-vigilant brain that’s always on the lookout for potential danger.

In addition to catastrophizing, my mind tends to branch out and generate alternative scenarios instead of accepting the actual outcome. As an empath, I extend the same kind of mental projection to others and their predicaments, randomly thinking of things out of the blue and reasoning, rationalizing, and imagining alternate outcomes. I practice mindreading in an effort to predict what others are thinking or could possibly be going through. I don’t want them to be in danger from the patterned variables I’ve experienced from them.

While this cognitive pattern can be both a blessing and a curse, I try to balance it by practicing mindfulness, cognitive reframing, and self-compassion, and seeking support from trusted friends or professionals when needed. By doing so, I can harness the benefits of my empathic and creative mind, while also avoiding the pitfalls of excessive worry and rumination.