Have you ever brushed off a compliment, minimized an accomplishment, or found reasons why something “doesn’t count”? That’s called discounting the positive — and it’s one of the most common thinking traps for trauma survivors.

This free handout explores 25 examples of how discounting shows up — from doubting compliments to criticizing instead of celebrating. Each example comes with a gentle challenge you can try, helping you pause, reframe, and practice receiving the good that’s already here.

Discounting positives once protected you by keeping expectations low, but now it can block healing. This resource gives you practical tools to notice those thoughts, soften them, and begin building self-trust and motivation. Over time, letting in the positive makes space for more hope, connection, and growth.