You must never get angry.
I've read that, or a variation of such, on many evaluation forms. It seems when you make your living as a 'motivational speaker' some people are under that impression.
Fair enough. I do try hard to be happy, optimistic, and positive. I practice being nice, even when I don't feel like it. I 'flip the switch' as quickly as possible when things aren't going right.
Some days are easier than others.
Some days people just act like jackasses.
Some days common sense is not very common.
Some days unreasonable, selfish, and mean are the flavors of the day.
Some days other people act this way and some days it's me.
If you can relate, here are 3 flipping hacks for when others are sending you on a one-way trip to irritation island:
- Flex your creative muscles and make up a story about why they are so miserable. The sadder the better for me and then I just feel sorry for them.
- Use the opportunity to grow. It's easy to be kind and happy when things are going your way but when something isn't, start thinking...Well, this is a great time to practice my...patience, understanding, and restraint - insert your desired skill here. Look at me being so resilient and adaptable!
- Use your words or don't...'Can you please say that again?' or 'Are you meaning to be mean?' can stop them in their tracks. Or using the beautiful act of silence, paired with a stare can have an interesting effect on the conversation.
Next up 3 flipping hacks I use when I am so cranky, I don't even want to be around me!
- I get out of Dodge; I sequester myself. Bedroom, bathroom, any room that doesn't have people in it for a space of time
- I get outside; blue and green must be seen. I never, ever come back inside in the same state as I went outside in, no matter if it's 40 below or raining, I come back as a better human.
- I move my body; motion changes emotion. Push-ups, squats, pillow-bashing, it's all good.
- Bonus tip, Music - playing or listening, it's a guaranteed shift.
Now...your life, your version, your plan...
- It's not a matter of if these issues come up in your life, it's a matter of when. What plan will you have in your back pocket to try?
- What is in your toolkit that you haven't used in a while?
- Who can you have a conversation with to share proactive tools with?
It may not all be unicorns and rainbows, but we've still got it pretty good!
Cheering for you, as always! Steph
PS - Did you know I'm on Spotify? Yeah, neither did anyone else - that explains why I have 1 listener. Check it out to see what free surprises are waiting for your next car ride or walk.
PS again - Who do you know who may appreciate joining our positive community? Invite them to sign up here. AND a HUGE welcome to our new community members - I enjoyed every single event in 2023 and am so glad you chose to stay connected! Share your wins anytime by clicking 'reply' and I will personally answer you.
On the Road with Steph - Difficult Person Edition
