Challenging 39 Automatic Negative Thoughts and Their Cognitive Distortions with Stoic Core Beliefs

 

Catching negative thoughts

"ChatGPT"

Core Beliefs of Stoicism

1. Happiness (eudaimonia) is to be found exclusively in Virtue."
2. The only things we control are inner events such as our beliefs, desires, and acts of will."
3. Virtue (or virtue and certain things that can be attained only by those with virtue) is the only genuine good, and vice the only genuine evil."
4. Ergo, since virtue and vice are types of acts of will, they are in our control."
5. Ergo, things not in our control [externals] are neither good nor evil."
6. Emotions (or passions, if you prefer) arise from (false) beliefs that externals have value."
7. No-one should be distressed by any external occurrence."


"Challenging 39 Automatic Negative Thoughts and Their Cognitive Distortions  with Stoic Core Beliefs:

1. "I'll never succeed at anything." (Filtering) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 1 (Happiness is found exclusively in Virtue), Core Belief 3 (Virtue is the only genuine good) Argument: According to Stoicism, success is not defined by external achievements but by living a virtuous life. Instead of measuring success solely by outcomes, one can focus on cultivating virtues such as resilience, integrity, and perseverance. By aligning their actions with their values and acting virtuously, individuals can find fulfillment and true success, regardless of external circumstances.

2. "Nobody likes me." (Mind Reading) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil), Core Belief 7 (No-one should be distressed by any external occurrence) Argument: Stoicism teaches that our worth as individuals is not determined by the opinions or judgments of others. By recognizing that external events, including the perceptions of others, are beyond our control, we can free ourselves from the need for external validation. Instead, we can focus on developing our character, acting virtuously, and finding inner fulfillment that is not dependent on the opinions of others.

3. "I'm a failure." (Labeling) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 3 (Virtue is the only genuine good), Core Belief 4 (Virtue and vice are types of acts of will and therefore within our control) Argument: Stoicism emphasizes that our worth as individuals is not determined by external labels or judgments. Instead of defining ourselves by perceived failures, we can focus on cultivating virtue and acting in accordance with our values. By recognizing that our actions are within our control and that acting virtuously is the true measure of success, we can overcome the negative self-labeling and strive for personal growth and well-being.

4. "Everything always goes wrong for me." (Overgeneralization) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil), Core Belief 6 (Emotions arise from false beliefs that externals have value) Argument: Stoicism teaches us to differentiate between what is within our control and what is not. While external events may sometimes bring challenges or difficulties, our interpretation and emotional response to those events are within our control. By challenging the belief that everything always goes wrong, individuals can recognize that setbacks and adversities are opportunities for growth and learning. They can cultivate resilience and focus on their inner events, such as their beliefs and acts of will, rather than being overwhelmed by a negative outlook.

5. "I'm worthless." (All-or-Nothing Thinking) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 3 (Virtue is the only genuine good), Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil) Argument: Stoicism teaches that our worth as individuals is not determined by external achievements or outcomes. By recognizing the inherent value of acting virtuously (core belief 3), individuals can challenge the belief that their worth is tied to their perceived worthlessness. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as kindness, integrity, and wisdom. By embracing the Stoic belief that external events are indifferent (core belief 5), individuals can find fulfillment and worthiness in their virtuous actions, regardless of external judgments or circumstances.

6. "I'll never be good enough." (Magnification/Minimization) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 3 (Virtue is the only genuine good), Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil) Argument: Stoicism teaches that the pursuit of virtue is more important than striving for external standards of perfection. By recognizing that external achievements do not define our worth, individuals can challenge the belief that they will never be good enough. Instead of magnifying their perceived shortcomings, they can focus on the virtuous efforts they make and the progress they achieve. By aligning their actions with their values and acting with integrity, individuals can find fulfillment and a sense of worthiness, regardless of external comparisons or expectations.


7. "I'm always to blame." (Personalization) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil), Core Belief 7 (No-one should be distressed by any external occurrence) Argument: Stoicism teaches that we should not take undue responsibility for external events or blame ourselves excessively. By recognizing that we are not always to blame for every outcome or situation, individuals can challenge the tendency to personalize and shoulder unnecessary guilt. Instead, they can focus on what is within their control, such as their beliefs and acts of will (core belief 2). They can cultivate self-compassion and approach challenges with a balanced perspective, understanding that external occurrences are not solely their responsibility.

8. "No one cares about me." (Emotional Reasoning) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 6 (Emotions arise from false beliefs that externals have value), Core Belief 7 (No-one should be distressed by any external occurrence) Argument: Stoicism challenges the belief that our worth or care from others is determined solely by our emotions or external validation. By recognizing that emotions can be influenced by false beliefs about externals, individuals can challenge the thought that no one cares about them. Instead of relying on emotional reasoning, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as kindness, empathy, and compassion. By embracing the Stoic belief that our worth and fulfillment come from acting virtuously (core belief 3), individuals can foster meaningful connections and find care and support from others.

9. "I'll never find love." (Fortune Telling) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil), Core Belief 7 (No-one should be distressed by any external occurrence) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to predict negative outcomes without evidence. By recognizing that we cannot accurately predict the future or control external events, individuals can challenge the thought that they'll never find love. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as openness, kindness, and self-improvement. By embracing the Stoic belief that external events are indifferent (core belief 5), individuals can approach relationships with a sense of tranquility and trust that their virtuous efforts will contribute to their overall well-being, regardless of the specific outcome.

10. "I can't trust anyone." (Jumping to Conclusions) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil), Core Belief 7 (No-one should be distressed by any external occurrence) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to make hasty judgments or assumptions about others. By recognizing that we cannot control the actions or intentions of others, individuals can challenge the belief that they can't trust anyone. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as discernment, empathy, and integrity. By embracing the Stoic belief that external events are indifferent (core belief 5), individuals can approach relationships with a balanced perspective and make informed judgments based on observed behaviors rather than assumptions. They can foster trust by acting virtuously themselves and surrounding themselves with individuals who embody similar virtues.


11. "I'm so stupid." (Self-Blame) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 3 (Virtue is the only genuine good), Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to engage in self-blame and self-criticism. By recognizing that intelligence or worth is not solely determined by external measures, individuals can challenge the thought that they are stupid. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as wisdom, curiosity, and continuous learning. By embracing the Stoic belief in the inherent value of acting virtuously (core belief 3), individuals can overcome self-blame and approach their intellectual pursuits with a growth mindset and self-compassion.

12. "I'll never get better." (Hopelessness) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 3 (Virtue is the only genuine good), Core Belief 4 (Virtue and vice are types of acts of will and therefore within our control) Argument: Stoicism challenges the belief that improvement or change is impossible. By recognizing that personal growth and development are within our control, individuals can challenge the thought that they'll never get better. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as resilience, perseverance, and self-reflection. By embracing the Stoic belief that acting virtuously is the path to true fulfillment (core belief 3), individuals can find hope and motivation in the pursuit of virtuous actions, knowing that change and progress are possible.

13. "I'm a burden to others." (Excessive Responsibility) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil), Core Belief 7 (No-one should be distressed by any external occurrence) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to assume excessive responsibility for others' well-being. By recognizing that we cannot control how others perceive or react to us, individuals can challenge the thought that they are a burden. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as compassion, support, and respect. By embracing the Stoic belief that external events are indifferent (core belief 5), individuals can foster healthier relationships and understand that they have inherent worth and the capacity to contribute positively without being a burden.

14. "I always mess things up." (Selective Abstraction) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 2 (The only things we control are inner events such as our beliefs, desires, and acts of will), Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to focus solely on past mistakes and ignore other aspects of one's abilities and accomplishments. By recognizing that we have control over our beliefs and acts of will, individuals can challenge the thought that they always mess things up. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as self-discipline, self-reflection, and self-improvement. By embracing the Stoic belief that external events are indifferent (core belief 5), individuals can learn from their past mistakes, make necessary adjustments, and approach future endeavors with a growth mindset.

15. "I'll never achieve my goals." (Disqualifying the Positive) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 3 (Virtue is the only genuine good), Core Belief 4 (Virtue and vice are types of acts of will and therefore within our control) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to dismiss or discount positive achievements or progress made towards goals. By recognizing that the pursuit of virtue and alignment with one's values are more important than external outcomes, individuals can challenge the thought that they'll never achieve their goals. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as perseverance, determination, and self-efficacy. By embracing the Stoic belief that acting virtuously is the true measure of success (core belief 3), individuals can find fulfillment in the process of striving for their goals, regardless of the specific outcome.

16. "I'm a loser." (Labeling) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 3 (Virtue is the only genuine good), Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to define oneself based on perceived shortcomings or failures. By recognizing that our worth as individuals is not determined by external labels, individuals can challenge the thought that they are a loser. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as resilience, self-acceptance, and self-improvement. By embracing the Stoic belief in the inherent value of acting virtuously (core belief 3), individuals can overcome self-labeling and develop a more constructive and compassionate mindset.

17. "Nothing good ever happens to me." (Overgeneralization) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil), Core Belief 7 (No-one should be distressed by any external occurrence) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to generalize negative experiences to all aspects of life. By recognizing that external events are not solely within our control, individuals can challenge the thought that nothing good ever happens to them. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as gratitude, perspective, and resilience. By embracing the Stoic belief that external events are indifferent (core belief 5), individuals can find meaning and appreciate the small joys and positive moments in life, even amidst challenges.

18. "I can't do anything right." (All-or-Nothing Thinking) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 3 (Virtue is the only enuine good), Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to view oneself or one's actions as either perfect or a complete failure. By recognizing that the value of our actions is not solely determined by external outcomes, individuals can challenge the thought that they can't do anything right. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as perseverance, self-reflection, and growth. By embracing the Stoic belief in the inherent value of acting virtuously (core belief 3), individuals can find fulfillment in the process of striving for excellence and continuous improvement, rather than being fixated on achieving a perceived standard of perfection.

19. "Everyone is better than me." (Comparisons) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil), Core Belief 7 (No-one should be distressed by any external occurrence) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to compare oneself unfavorably to others. By recognizing that external comparisons do not define our worth or happiness, individuals can challenge the thought that everyone is better than them. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as self-acceptance, self-confidence, and empathy. By embracing the Stoic belief that external events are indifferent (core belief 5), individuals can appreciate their own unique qualities and strengths and acknowledge that true fulfillment comes from acting virtuously rather than constantly comparing themselves to others.

20. "I'm destined for failure." (Catastrophizing) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 3 (Virtue is the only genuine good), Core Belief 7 (No-one should be distressed by any external occurrence) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to assume the worst-case scenario and believe in an inevitable pattern of failure. By recognizing that external events are not inherently good or evil, individuals can challenge the thought that they are destined for failure. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as resilience, adaptability, and optimism. By embracing the Stoic belief in the inherent value of acting virtuously (core belief 3), individuals can approach challenges with a sense of tranquility and focus on their inner events, such as their beliefs and acts of will, rather than being overwhelmed by catastrophic thinking.


21. "Nobody understands me." (Mind Reading) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil), Core Belief 7 (No-one should be distressed by any external occurrence) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to assume that others cannot understand or empathize with one's experiences. By recognizing that we cannot control the thoughts or perceptions of others, individuals can challenge the thought that nobody understands them. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as empathy, open communication, and connection. By embracing the Stoic belief that external events are indifferent (core belief 5), individuals can foster meaningful relationships and engage in constructive dialogues, allowing others the opportunity to understand them better.

22. "I'm unlovable." (Emotional Reasoning) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 6 (Emotions arise from false beliefs that externals have value), Core Belief 7 (No-one should be distressed by any external occurrence) Argument: Stoicism challenges the belief that our lovability is solely determined by our emotional state or external validation. By recognizing that emotions can be influenced by false beliefs about externals, individuals can challenge the thought that they are unlovable. Instead of relying on emotional reasoning, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as self-compassion, self-acceptance, and authenticity. By embracing the Stoic belief that our worth and fulfillment come from acting virtuously (core belief 3), individuals can develop a sense of self-love and attract genuine connections based on their virtues and inner character.

23. "I'll never be successful." (Fortune Telling) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil), Core Belief 7 (No-one should be distressed by any external occurrence) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to predict negative outcomes without evidence. By recognizing that we cannot accurately predict the future or control external events, individuals can challenge the thought that they will never be successful. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as perseverance, resilience, and adaptability. By embracing the Stoic belief that external events are indifferent (core belief 5), individuals can find fulfillment in the process of striving for excellence and personal growth, regardless of specific external measures of success.

24. "I always make mistakes."
(Overpersonalization) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 2 (The only things we control are inner events such as our beliefs, desires, and acts of will), Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to attribute every mistake or error to one's own inherent flaws or incompetence. By recognizing that we have control over our beliefs and acts of will, individuals can challenge the thought that they always make mistakes. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as self-reflection, learning from past experiences, and embracing a growth mindset. By embracing the Stoic belief that external events are indifferent (core belief 5), individuals can approach mistakes as opportunities for growth and self-improvement, rather than personalizing them as a reflection of their worth or competence.

25. "I'll never be happy." (Hopelessness) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 1 (Happiness is found exclusively in Virtue), Core Belief 3 (Virtue is the only genuine good) Argument: Stoicism challenges the belief that happiness is unattainable. By recognizing that true happiness comes from living a virtuous life (core belief 1), individuals can challenge the thought that they will never be happy. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as gratitude, contentment, and compassion. By embracing the Stoic belief in the inherent value of acting virtuously (core belief 3), individuals can find fulfillment and inner tranquility, regardless of external circumstances or fleeting emotions.

26. "I'm always the problem." (Personalization) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil), Core Belief 7 (No-one should be distressed by any external occurrence) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to assume excessive responsibility for problems or conflicts. By recognizing that we cannot control the actions or reactions of others, individuals can challenge the thought that they are always the problem. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as self-awareness, empathy, and effective communication. By embracing the Stoic belief that external events are indifferent (core belief 5), individuals can foster healthier relationships and understand that assigning blame solely to themselves is often an oversimplification of complex situations.

27. "I'm not capable of anything." (Magnification/Minimization) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 2 (The only things we control are inner events such as our beliefs, desires, and acts of will), Core Belief 3 (Virtue is the only genuine good) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to magnify perceived shortcomings and minimize personal abilities. By recognizing that we have control over our beliefs and acts of will, individuals can challenge the thought that they are not capable of anything. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as self-confidence, self-compassion, and continuous learning. By embracing the Stoic belief that acting virtuously is the path to true fulfillment (core belief 3), individuals can develop a more balanced perspective of their capabilities and nurture their inherent potential.

28. "I'll never overcome my problems." (Permanence) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 3 (Virtue is the only genuine good), Core Belief 7 (No-one should be distressed by any external occurrence) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to believe that problems or difficulties are insurmountable or permanent. By recognizing that external events are not inherently good or evil, individuals can challenge the thought that they will never overcome their problems. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as resilience, problem-solving skills, and adaptability. By embracing the Stoic belief in the inherent value of acting virtuously (core belief 3), individuals can approach challenges with a sense of empowerment and the understanding that their actions and efforts can lead to positive change and personal growth.

29. "Nobody cares about my opinion." (Mind Reading) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil), Core Belief 7 (No-one should be distressed by any external occurrence) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to assume that others do not value or care about one's opinions. By recognizing that we cannot control the thoughts or actions of others, individuals can challenge the thought that nobody cares about their opinion. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as self-expression, active listening, and engaging in constructive dialogue. By embracing the Stoic belief that external events are indifferent (core belief 5), individuals can contribute their opinions and perspectives with confidence, understanding that their worth is not solely determined by the validation or agreement of others.

30. "I'll never achieve my dreams." (Fortune Telling) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 3 (Virtue is the only genuine good), Core Belief 7 (No-one should be distressed by any external occurrence) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to predict negative outcomes without evidence. By recognizing that we cannot accurately predict the future or control external events, individuals can challenge the thought that they will never achieve their dreams. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as determination, perseverance, and adaptability. By embracing the Stoic belief that external events are indifferent (core belief 5), individuals can approach their aspirations with a sense of tranquility and commitment, knowing that their virtuous efforts contribute to personal growth and fulfillment, regardless of the specific outcome.

31. "I'm always at fault." (Personalization) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil), Core Belief 7 (No-one should be distressed by any external occurrence) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to take excessive responsibility and blame oneself for every negative outcome. By recognizing that we cannot control the actions or reactions of others, individuals can challenge the thought that they are always at fault. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as self-reflection, accountability, and effective problem-solving. By embracing the Stoic belief that external events are indifferent (core belief 5), individuals can gain a more balanced perspective and attribute responsibility where it truly lies, fostering healthier relationships and a more constructive approach to challenges.

32. "I'm so stupid; I'll never learn." (Self-Blame) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 3 (Virtue is the only genuine good), Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to engage in self-blame and discourage self-improvement. By recognizing that intelligence and growth are not solely determined by external measures, individuals can challenge the thought that they are stupid and incapable of learning. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as humility, curiosity, and perseverance. By embracing the Stoic belief in the inherent value of acting virtuously (core belief 3), individuals can foster a growth mindset and approach learning with self-compassion and the understanding that intellectual growth is a continuous process.

33. "I'll never be happy no matter what." (Hopelessness) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 1 (Happiness is found exclusively in Virtue), Core Belief 3 (Virtue is the only genuine good) Argument: Stoicism challenges the belief that happiness is unattainable regardless of one's circumstances. By recognizing that true happiness comes from living a virtuous life (core belief 1), individuals can challenge the thought that they will never be happy. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as gratitude, contentment, and inner peace. By embracing the Stoic belief in the inherent value of acting virtuously (core belief 3), individuals can find fulfillment and tranquility even amidst challenges, understanding that their emotional state is not solely determined by external factors.

34. "I'm such a disappointment." (Self-Blame) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 3 (Virtue is the only genuine good), Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to engage in self-blame and perceive oneself as a constant disappointment. By recognizing that our worth is not solely defined by external measures of success or validation, individuals can challenge the thought that they are a disappointment. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as self-acceptance, self-compassion, and self-improvement. By embracing the Stoic belief in the inherent value of acting virtuously (core belief 3), individuals can develop a more constructive and compassionate mindset, understanding that personal growth and character development are ongoing processes.

35. "Nothing good ever happens to me." (Negativity Bias) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil), Core Belief 7 (No-one should be distressed by any external occurrence) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to focus on the negative and overlook positive experiences. By recognizing that external events are not inherently good or evil, individuals can challenge the thought that nothing good ever happens to them. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as gratitude, mindfulness, and perspective. By embracing the Stoic belief that external events are indifferent (core belief 5), individuals can develop a more balanced mindset, appreciating the small joys and positive moments that occur in their lives, despite any challenges they may face.






36. "I can't do anything right; I always fail." (All-or-Nothing Thinking) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 3 (Virtue is the only genuine good), Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to view oneself or one's actions as either perfect or a complete failure. By recognizing that external outcomes do not solely determine the value of our actions, individuals can challenge the thought that they can't do anything right and always fail. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as resilience, self-compassion, and a growth mindset. By embracing the Stoic belief in the inherent value of acting virtuously (core belief 3), individuals can find fulfillment in the process of striving for excellence and continuous improvement, even in the face of setbacks.

37. "Everyone else has it so easy." (Comparisons) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil), Core Belief 7 (No-one should be distressed by any external occurrence) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to compare oneself unfavorably to others and perceive their lives as easier. By recognizing that external circumstances and the experiences of others are beyond our control, individuals can challenge the thought that everyone else has it easy. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as gratitude, self-acceptance, and self-confidence. By embracing the Stoic belief that external events are indifferent (core belief 5), individuals can appreciate their own unique journey and the opportunities for growth and learning it presents, rather than being consumed by comparisons.

38. "I'll never find true happiness." (Catastrophizing) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 1 (Happiness is found exclusively in Virtue), Core Belief 7 (No-one should be distressed by any external occurrence) Argument: Stoicism challenges the belief that true happiness is unattainable. By recognizing that happiness comes from living a virtuous life (core belief 1) and that external events are indifferent to our well-being (core belief 7), individuals can challenge the thought that they'll never find true happiness. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as gratitude, contentment, and inner peace. By embracing the Stoic belief in the inherent value of acting virtuously, individuals can find fulfillment and tranquility, understanding that their well-being is not solely determined by external circumstances.

39. "I'm always alone." (Overgeneralization) Stoic Core Beliefs: Core Belief 5 (Things not in our control are neither good nor evil), Core Belief 7 (No-one should be distressed by any external occurrence) Argument: Stoicism challenges the tendency to overgeneralize and believe that one is always alone. By recognizing that external events and the presence of others are not the sole determinants of our sense of connection and support, individuals can challenge the thought that they're always alone. Instead, they can focus on cultivating virtues such as empathy, self-compassion, and building meaningful relationships. By embracing the Stoic belief that external events are indifferent (core belief 5), individuals can foster connections, seek support when needed, and find solace in their inner events and acts of will.

These arguments demonstrate how applying Stoic core beliefs can challenge cognitive distortions and provide alternative perspectives that promote resilience, personal growth, and a more balanced mindset when confronted with negative automatic thoughts" (ChatGPT).