Hi everyone. This is the first time that I have posted anything and I dont even know if i am doing it right but i have a few questions. i am having trouble coming up with negative things that i say to myself. i think that i jsut avoid everything that makes me panic and become nervous. my negative thoughts are like a huge cnversation how do i turn that into a positive. and I have been thinking and of course worrying about the upcoming session when they tell you to go out on your own. i havent driven a car by myself in a whole year ( thats my thing i dont want to be alone and driving by yourself or being somewhere freaks me out) so can i start small like going into the store by myslef and having someone wait outside or is that taking a wimpy way out? If anyone has any suggestions or advice please let me know. i fell terrible because i know that im a burden to everyone around me driving is such a huge part of life that im missing. How can i make myself better without relying on everyone else ( while i ask others for advice lol ironic)

I'm not sure whether it is in Session 1 or 2, I think 2, but Lucinda specifically talks about going to a store alone.. it's kind of an off-hand statement, I think, but she states that if going to places alone is one of your limitations that you start out slow, like go with someone, but have them stay in a different part of the store (or outside, like you said) so that you know they are there, if needed. You work up to going it completely alone.
Be kind to yourself and set your expectations aside. While I do not have this limitation, I would think that if you're able to go inside and buy just one item or browse for a few minutes (knowing it's only a very short time you'll be in there), it is an excellent start.
As far as the driving thing - sit in the car alone first for a few minutes... then another day, do it again, but start the car this time... next time, put the car in gear and back out of the garage or pull forward a few feet, etc.

Buuut... if you're on Session 3... consider your worry about the next session as being a negative thought.

Perhaps spin it this way: It's great that I am such a forward thinker and planner. It's true I will need to eventually get out and work on my limitations and it may not be easy, but I am working on my skills and I will be prepared. Baby steps are fine. I will be fine.

You are strong, and it will show through with each baby step.
Even if you have negative "conversations", you can jot down key points and think of how friend might try to point out the silver lining... write it down - you can erase and change the positive statement until it seems comfortable to you.. doesn't need to be perfect.. just less negative, and believable.

Hope this helps. Take care...