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Adam-kent Quote by Tahereh Mafi

“I count everything. Even numbers, odd numbers, multiples of 10. I count the ticks of the clock i count the tocks of the clock I count the lines between the lines on a sheet of paper. I count the broken beats of my heart I count my pulse and my blinks and the number of tries it takes to inhale…” quote by Tahereh Mafi
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““I count everything. Even numbers, odd numbers, multiples of 10. I count the ticks of the clock i count the tocks of the clock I count the lines between the lines on a sheet of paper. I count the broken beats of my heart I count my pulse and my blinks and the number of tries it takes to inhale enough oxygen for my lungs. I stay like this I stand like this I count like this until the feeling stops. Until the tears stop spilling, until my fists stop shaking, until my heart stops aching. There are never enough numbers.””

Tahereh Mafi

About This Quote

The speaker describes compulsive counting as a coping mechanism to manage overwhelming emotions and anxiety.

In simple terms: Counting becomes a way to control inner turmoil.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and address underlying anxiety.

Themes

anxiety compulsion emotional regulation

Mood

anxious introspective

Type

psychological personal

When to use this quote

  • stressful moments
  • therapy sessions
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

cognitive coping mindfulness self‑awareness

Questions to Reflect On

  • What triggers your counting?
  • Can alternative grounding techniques help?
A Different Perspective

Counting may mask rather than resolve deeper issues.

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