Week of December 18th

Embracing the Dark: Opposite Action for Social Connection

Samarah Cook, LMSW

As the days grow shorter and the evenings darker, a subtle shift has taken place in my routine. The prospect of leaving my apartment past 8 pm has lost its appeal, creating a barrier to socializing that I hadn’t anticipated. In these moments, I find myself operating based on my current mood rather than aligning with my overarching goal of maintaining meaningful friendships.

 

Enter Opposite Action, a powerful tool from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). While the darkness outside may dampen my motivation to socialize, Opposite Action encourages me to challenge this inclination. Instead of succumbing to the pull of staying indoors, I’m prompted to act contrary to my current mood in pursuit of my larger goal.

 

The goal here isn’t to force myself into uncomfortable situations but to gently nudge against the gravitational pull of inertia. It might start with a small step – a brief evening stroll, a cozy gathering with a friend, or even a virtual hangout. By embracing Opposite Action, I’m not only breaking free from the limitations imposed by my mood but also honoring the value I place on maintaining connections.

 

In these darker evenings, Opposite Action becomes a beacon guiding me towards the warmth of social bonds. It’s a reminder that while the comfort of my apartment is inviting, the richness of friendships often awaits just beyond my doorstep. As I navigate this seasonal shift, I’m committed to letting Opposite Action illuminate my path, ensuring that my actions align with my overarching goal of fostering and maintaining connections, even when the temptation to stay in is strong.

 

So, as the evenings grow longer, I invite you to consider your own Opposite Action. What small step can you take to defy the gravitational pull of mood-driven inertia and move towards your broader goals? In the dance between darkness and connection, let Opposite Action be your guiding light.

 

Here’s to embracing the dark for the sake of brighter connections.

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