.
Yep. They're called intrusive thoughts. ( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intrusive_thought ) They're usually a manifestation of anxiety or an anxiety disorder. I've suffered from this form of mental torment since I was a kid.
The trick is not to fight them or to develop mental mechanisms by which to 'repel' them. They don't work for the same reason a Chinese finger puzzle can't be overcome by brute force. I follow the 'AIM' method: Acknowledge, Ignore, Move-on.
I suppose the psychological hygiene of this attitude depends largely on the nature of the thoughts. :-D
Thinking about boobs is improper?
Damn!! Something else to worry about. :-)
I don't know if they would be considered improper, but yes, most excellent improper thoughts, Whoa!
Lol.
lol
I enjoy those thoughts too. Sometimes we need them just to keep us going. Especially if we're living alone.
But sometimes such thoughts tempt us into actions we might regret.
The problem is some thoughts simply cannot be ignored. They stay put in the mind and drive you crazy until you feel like you need to give in.
Thanks for your answer, Nimitz.
:)
:)
Hello N:
I have improper thoughts ALL the time. I don't try to banish them, because they CANNOT be banished. You have them too. Everybody does. If you TRY to banish them, you'll drive yourself NUTS.. The key is not ACTING on your thoughts...
excon
That's a very positive approach to life.
Which is exactly what I'm trying to control myself from doing.
Hello again, N:
What is the Nike slogan??? Just DO it.. That's all you have to do.. It's NOT easy.. It's NOT hard, either. It's a MUSCLE.. The more you train it to say NO, the easier it becomes..
I'll send you my bill in the morning.
excon
Nope
True. Experience, though, seems to make it easier. I've been battling this demon since I was eighteen or thereabouts. Judging by the Wikipedia reference I sent, we're in some mighty good company.