After naming and validating your feelings, the next step is to examine the thoughts going through your head. Because most people don't practice mindfulness, we identify with our thoughts without examining whether they are based in reality and whether we agree with them. In order for a thought to be compassionate, it must be true and kind. Thoughts that are not compassionate are usually unhelpful. They may get us through the day, but not happily so. We all have voices in our head. This does not make you schizophrenic or have multiple personality disorder. Three voices to look out for when you are feeling overwhelmed are: 1) Anxiety, 2) the Drill Sergeant, and 3) the Inner Critic.