Many of us were raised to choose one side: strong or struggling, grateful or hurting, proud of how far we’ve come or honest about how tired we are. DBT begins with a different idea called dialectics: two things that seem opposite can both be true at once.
You can love your family and need boundaries with them. You can be a high achiever and still need rest. You can serve with honor and still carry pain from that service. Holding both is not weakness. It is wisdom many of our elders practiced long before it had a name.
This week’s practice: When you notice an “either/or” thought, try rewriting it as “both/and.” For example: “I’m grateful for this job AND it’s okay that I’m exhausted.” Notice what softens in your body when you allow both.
Your Reflection
Take a few quiet minutes with these questions.
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This reflection is not a substitute for therapy. If you are in crisis, call or text 988.
There is room here for all of you.
