R.U.T. – A Word for Your Day

By Jane Bishop

How do you know if you are in a R.U.T.? I like to define R.U.T. as Reinforcing Unrealistic Thoughts. As Albert Einstein said, “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over in the same way and expecting different results.” When we are in a R.U.T., we are on the same trajectory and yet we unrealistically think that we’ll eventually receive different results. So, what do you do when you’re in a R.U.T.?

When I find myself in a R.U.T., I usually turn to my “Talk to The Hand: Five A’s” method.

1. Become very AWARE. Recognize the R.U.T. that you are in and acknowledge the reality.

2. ASSESS the situation. When I know I’m getting into a R.U.T., I often get bored and restless. I must ask myself, “Is this a R.U.T. or is it a necessary routine?”

3. ASK yourself what resources are available to get you out of your R.U.T. – perhaps an accountability partner or take a class. Whatever it may be, analyze the best option for you and see what is feasible for your situation.

4. ALIGN yourself with what you decide is best. Maybe this R.U.T. snuck up on you and came out of nowhere. When unpredictable things happen, it is important to realign yourself with what you’re

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