# Putting thoughts on trial To weigh the pros and cons of specific thoughts, you can put those on trial. This is a useful technique to fight against [[Negative emotions]]. If you want to put a thought on trial, you can play different roles: defense attorney, prosecutor, and judge. Looking at the same thought through different lenses helps determine its accuracy. When you look at the thought through the eyes of prosecution and defense, you need to gather evidence in support of, and against your thought. Evidence can only be used if it's a verifiable fact. No interpretations, guesses or opinions are allowed; only facts. When you play the judge, you need to come to a verdict regarding the thought. Is the thought accurate and fair? Are there other thoughts that could explain the facts? Using this technique, we judge the facts, and avoid letting our emotions hide the truth from us. By [[Make a conscious effort to think in order to remain rational and calm down]], we also get back in control. This technique is a tool used as part of [[Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)]]. Inspiration: [[Pieter Levels]] https://x.com/levelsio/status/1486612787723866115 ![[putting thoughts on trial.png]] Tags: #thinking #techniques #tips #decision_making