Hmm, what to write about this week: Three letters towards emotional freedom

Next time your brain says something harsh—like “I’m such a mess” or “That’s never going to work”—try this:

Pause. Then say: "Hmm."

Just that.

It might feel silly. But “hmm” is a bridge. It gets you from judgment to curiosity. From reactivity to reflection. From panic to possibility.

It keeps your brain from doubling down on doom, and nudges it toward something more flexible.

This works for anxiety too.
When your brain starts spinning with “What ifs,” try responding with: “Hmm. That’s an interesting thought.”

When you add that tiny bit of distance, you create space to choose what comes next—rather than getting yanked along by your first thought.

You’re not trying to banish the thought or prove it wrong. You’re just stepping out of the automatic “believe it and react” cycle long enough to see it for what it is: words in your mind, not the voice of the universe.

Sometimes, that space will lead you to a gentler, truer thought. Sometimes it will just give you a breath before you decide how you want to respond. Either way, you’re back in the driver’s seat.

As Byron Katie says, “You don’t have to believe your thoughts. Just notice them.”

So this week, when your brain serves up something harsh or worrisome, give it a little “Hmm.” See what opens up when you treat it like a curious observer instead of a powerless passenger.

You might just find that “Hmm” is the smallest, easiest way to create space for growth mindset and a break from the worry spin cycle.

Hmm…maybe this email will lighten your week…