Ruminate less. Be in the moment more.
The mind needs one of two things to avoid rumination:
- Turn off the inner dialogue. Focusing on your breathing can help with that.
- A distraction, such as work or entertainment that you enjoy.
These things can pull you away from your negative thoughts.
Journaling can also be useful. It’s like venting, but in a more constructive way—better than lashing out, or privately yelling and swearing.