If you tell your mind, not to think about Purple Elephants, it will think about Purple elephants. This is the nature of the mind. Therefore, the thoughts cannot be transcended with the mind. Meditation is beyond the mind. Just return to your breathing. The Pink elephant will move on on its own.
If you tell yourself, I will be still, your mind with now chatter about being still. If you really want to be still, particularly when moments of emotional intensity have engulfed you, strengthen your practice. Maintain your daily practice and practice mindfulness in as many moments as possible. Keep Meditating
Credits: The credit for explaining this concept goes to Deepak Chopra. We build upon his words. His elephant was pink btw.