Promise Law - December 2025

We’ve all been there: lying awake at night, replaying conversations, imagining worst-case scenarios, or obsessing over things we can’t change. Overthinking might feel harmless, but when those thoughts keep circling, they can take a toll on your mood, energy, and overall well-being. So, how do you break the cycle? It starts with noticing what’s happening in your mind. Next time your thoughts go into overdrive, pause and ask yourself: What emotion is fueling this? Maybe it’s worry, guilt, or frustration. Recognizing the source is the first step toward loosening its grip. Turn down the mental volume. When your brain feels stuck on repeat, try redirecting your energy. Dive into a hobby, work out, learn a new recipe, or volunteer for a cause that matters to you. Shifting focus Hit Pause When Your Brain Won’t Stop Talking When ‘What If’ Won’t Quit

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students, my singing partner for a duet fell ill. In a moment I will always cherish, Tammy took my partner’s place and we sang together. And Jim, a professional in the performing arts, consistently encouraged me when I did improv and stand-up comedy. I remember feeling devastated after a terrible performance, and Jim said, “That’s performing! Just pick yourself up and keep on doing it!” Across Generations When I was dating Fred, who is 29 years my senior, I sometimes questioned my judgment. Tammy shared with me that her parents were 20 years apart in age and encouraged me, saying, “Anyone worth having is going to add more than they take,” and that the sincerity of hearts would bridge that gap. Her singing at my wedding was the ultimate gift. I have eagerly cheered on Tammy’s two children through college graduations and weddings, and the launching of careers and families of their own. Through all of these seasons of work and family life, aging, loved ones’ passing, and health crises, Tammy and I just soldiered on through it all together. Thinking back over the years, I remember Tammy’s sadness after Promise Law’s growth forced us to move out of our shared office. Although I assured her that we were still together, she said, “It is never going to be the same again because it won’t be just the two of us.” Tammy has always carried within her that ballast, history, and appreciation of where we had come from. She was the carrier of our legacy. As we face this new kind of separation, I realize our relationship is never going to be the same. But I am confident we will build together the new norms and opportunities to connect and keep our friendship strong.

gives your mind a break and can help you feel more grounded.

Breathing exercises also work wonders. Place one hand on your heart, one on your belly, and take slow, steady breaths in and

And as Promise Law continues growing in its 12th year, Tammy shares in our success. For that, and for so much more, Tammy … Thank you!

out through your nose. It’s simple, but it signals your body to relax and can help calm racing thoughts in just a few minutes. Challenge your thoughts. Automatic negative thoughts (those instant, gloomy reactions) can trap you in “what ifs” and worst-case scenarios. Write them down, seek a more balanced perspective, and see if you can do anything about them. Taking small, thoughtful actions toward solutions can help quiet the mental noise. And remember, you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Talking to a trusted friend or a therapist can give you a fresh outlook on managing those runaway thoughts.