Dealing With Pink Elephants

Pink Elephants are mental distractions that appear real but don’t exist. They prevent us from seeing the real problem or solution and may take form in any form: an idea, thought or emotion. To deal with pink elephants effectively is to recognize them quickly before moving on – otherwise the pink elephant may come back out and cause more problems! The key is not becoming distracted again by one.

Pink elephants is an informal term used to refer to hallucinations caused by alcohol or delirium tremens. It has been in use since the early 20th century, taking its cue from earlier idioms about snakes. One famous use is in Jack London’s 1913 novel John Barleycorn wherein its protagonist is described as someone “we all know: stupid, unimaginative and frequently plagued with maggot bites. When intoxicated he walks generously with legs spread wide but falls frequently into gutters while seeing blue mice and pink elephants.”

Researching revealed that University Motors’ pink elephant, “Pinkie,” is not unique. The original, which had 12 foot fiberglass ears and sunglasses named after him at McPherson Motors on Charlotte Pike in West Nashville was later photographed at Clarkesville Tennessee car dealership also sporting FAST Korp pink elephant. Old newspaper photos confirm this information – whether this may be one animal that moved between dealerships is unknown but the shape of ears and sunglasses suggest otherwise.

Pink Elephants peer support program offers women who have experienced miscarriage or pregnancy loss a safe space to share their experiences, build each other up, and work towards changing the narrative around this issue. Their aim is to shift attitudes around it for everyone involved – and already has over 1,000 members across both the UK and Australia! If you would like to join their community you can join their Facebook Group here, donate directly, volunteer at one of their advocacy work events here, or learn more here about them here.