Are you saying “I’ve GOT to go to work tomorrow” OR “I GET to go to work tomorrow”…….

It’s Sunday, and for many people, a familiar feeling starts to creep in—the dread of Monday.

You might notice the thought: “I’ve GOT to go to work tomorrow.”

And from there, the thoughts can quickly spiral.

“It was only just Friday… Where’s the weekend gone… I’m so tired… I just want tomorrow to do other things…I never have enough time…..I’ve got that task at work I’m dreading…Oh no I don’t want to go… I need a different job… I hate my job…Everything is so  unfair”

And on… and on…and on it goes.

Before you know it, one simple thought has snowballed into a cascade of negativity, and your mood has taken a noticeable hit.

But what if we gently shifted that first thought ever so slightly?

“I GET to go to work tomorrow.”

It’s a subtle change in wording, yet the impact can be powerful. The language we use—our internal dialogue—shapes the way we experience our lives. The stories we tell ourselves influence our emotions, our mindset, and ultimately, our wellbeing.

This idea is closely linked to the neuroscience of gratitude. When we consciously shift our perspective, even slightly, we can begin to engage different emotional responses and create a more balanced outlook.

This reframe can be applied to many areas of life:

• “I’ve got to look after the kids” becomes “I get to look after the kids.”

• “I’ve got to go to a family function” becomes “I get to go to a family function.”

Of course, not everything we do is enjoyable. But often, the reason we do these things is because they connect to something meaningful—our values, our relationships, our responsibilities, or our goals. When we lose sight of that, it’s easy for the mind to default to negativity.

Reframing negative self-talk isn’t always easy. It takes awareness, practice, and sometimes support. Similarly, identifying what truly matters to us—our core values—and aligning our actions with them can feel challenging, but it’s an important part of creating a more fulfilling life.

Working with a counsellor can help you explore these patterns. Together, you can learn how to gently reframe unhelpful thoughts, better understand your values, and make choices that feel more aligned with who you are.

If this resonates with you, you’re welcome to reach out!