12. Create Solutions, Not Stories

In this episode, I share a pivotal lesson that will save you time and worry in your personal and work life. We all have runaway thoughts in our heads. We read into situations, we overthink conversations, we play back events in our head over and over. When we are unsure, we often fill in the gaps ourselves — creating stories that are not rooted in reality. We assume the worst, and that never ends well. I share with you how to recognize when this is happening and what steps you can take to resolve it. Take control back of your thoughts. To find peace of mind, you can let the runaway thought go or address it in a way that does not put the other person on the defensive. Learn to create more solutions and fewer stories.

"If you're going to make up a story, at least make it a good one — or better yet, don't make one at all. Just ask." – Trina Gray

Keypoints:

• Your Thoughts Aren’t Always Truths – When someone doesn’t reply, it’s easy to spiral. I remind you that delay doesn’t equal disinterest — it usually means distraction.
• Catch the Spiral Early – Learn to spot when your thoughts are running away from you. You have the power to pause, reassess, and redirect.
• Clarity vs. Closure – Ask yourself: do I need peace or answers? That choice determines whether you let go or ask a kind, open-ended question.
• Give People Grace – Life happens. Most of the time, a late reply isn’t personal — it’s about timing, not intention.
• Communicate Like a Grown-Up – Using mature, thoughtful language opens doors. Disarming questions lead to understanding, not conflict.

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