A way to notice thinking
Leaves on a Stream
Fall offers a familiar picture: a leaf resting on moving water.
Here, you can put a thought into words on a clay leaf. The aim is to notice it as a thought, then choose what to do next—even if it stays with you.
When might you try it?
When an ordinary thought keeps catching your attention—for example, “I'll get it wrong” before reading a work message. Try noticing the words, rather than getting pulled into another argument with them.
This does not decide whether a concern is true or solve a practical problem. Watching the leaf move does not remove the thought. It can stay or return; you do not need to repeat until it goes.
Use a manageable example, make one up, or keep your words in mind. If this feels upsetting or unhelpful, stop and use an approach or support that fits. This is not crisis support.
A written way to try it
- Think of an ordinary, manageable thought, or use “I'll get it wrong.” No writing is needed.
- If useful, say or think “I am noticing the thought that I'll get it wrong.” You are noticing thinking, not deciding that the concern is false.
- The words may stay or return. Choose what fits next: read a line, ask a practical question, pause or seek support.
If it becomes a task to make the thought disappear
Leave it here or return to the plain phrase “I'm noticing thinking.” Another pass is optional. You do not need a leaf, a clear picture or a calmer feeling.
This page does not record, store or assess a response.