Minimizing is a cognitive distortion in which a person downplays experiences, abilities, or emotions.
1. If my friend got divorced, I would think, "It’s not a big deal."
2. I received negative feedback at work, but I am often criticized. It’s not important.
3. When your comment hurts your loved one, you say, You’re too sensitive.
4. People are offended when I say, "You shouldn't feel that way."
5. My friend was hospitalized after an accident; I minimized the seriousness of the situation.
6. I minimize my work promotion; I don’t want to look arrogant.
7. My abilities and skills are due to luck.
8. My friend complimented me; they were being polite.
9. My winning project was a fluke.
10. When my friend got angry with me, I thought, It doesn’t matter.
11. My partner and I argued, I slept on the couch, but the fight wasn’t that bad.
12. I tend to dismiss anything good that transpires; it’s just happenstance.
13. When my friend came down with an illness. I said, "Things are not as bad as you make it."
14. I rationalize a loved one's bad behavior and say, "It's not their fault; they can't help it."
15. Minimizing my behavior decreases my guilt.