Cognitive Distortions: The Hidden Mind Traps That Shape Your Relationships and Reality

Welcome back to The Relationship Doctor! I’m Dr. Margaret Cochran, and today we’re tackling a topic that affects every one of us—whether we realize it or not: cognitive distortions. These sneaky, distorted ways of thinking can twist how we see ourselves, our relationships, and even the world around us—often leading to unnecessary pain, confusion, and conflict.

I’ll walk you through some of the most common traps we fall into—like all-or-nothing thinking, catastrophizing, personalizing, and those pesky “shoulds” that quietly run the show in our heads. And don’t worry—it’s not all heavy stuff! With a little humor and a lot of compassion, I’ll help you recognize how these thoughts take hold and, more importantly, how to shift them toward something healthier and more freeing.

By the end of this episode, you’ll have practical tools to challenge your inner critic, communicate more clearly, and bring more calm, clarity, and kindness into your relationships. So, if you’ve ever caught yourself spiraling or assuming the worst, this one’s for you. Let’s unpack the mind games we all play—and learn how to stop believing everything we think.

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction
00:10 - Understanding Cognitive Distortions
05:45 - Fallacy of Unseen Reward
07:30 - "Overcoming Cognitive Distortions"
11:29 - Question Assumptions for Self-Growth
13:24 - Wishing You Wisdom and Magic
14:01 - Outro

Quotes:

“Separating fact from fiction allows you to determine which part of your thinking you need to change.”- Dr. Margaret Cochran

“If the way you’re looking at people, events, and yourself is negative and limiting, you’re cheating yourself and those around you.”- Dr. Margaret Cochran

Key Takeaways:

Cognitive Distortions: The Root of Unnecessary Suffering
The Greatest Hits of Distorted Thinking
Relationship Roadblocks
The Power of Awareness
Tools for Transformation: Steps to Clearer Thinking
Treat Yourself Like a Friend
Lighten Up and Laugh
Progress, Not Perfection

Connect with Dr Margaret
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/doctorcochran
Website: https://drcochrancoaching.com/