Hey Friend, what's the best thing that happened to you this week?
I know, everyone you know is asking you that question, right? NO?
Probably because we're so used to being in fix-it mode and talking about problems instead.
Talking them out is far better than stuffing your emotions although over-talking about them can make them WORSE.
Here are the strategies I use that I think will work for you too. Let me know which one you like best.
5 Healthy Ways To Manage A Problem:
- Write down your feelings - this gives you clarity and can help you feel a LOT better. Write what happened, how you feel and why you feel that way.
- Get off the field and into the stands - a grandstand view of the problem down on the field and small allows you to see the bigger picture and distance yourself from it.
- Take ownership of ONLY what you want to keep - notice I'm talking about "the" problem rather than "your" problem to keep it is separate from you. No need to take ownership of something you don't want. It keeps it stuck to you.
- Decide what you want in place of the problem - you attract what you focus on so switch your thoughts and feelings to what you want and how it feels to already have it.
- Schedule time with friends if you need to vent - to avoid accidentally infecting a friend with negative problem energy, ask when a good time is so they have a little notice. BIG difference and appreciated.
For me, #1 is my go-to strategy and so clarifying. If I do need #5 it's a much different conversation because I've sorted it out on paper already. (Yes, paper and pen, no keyboard.) I've been practicing #2, #3 and #4 for years so those come pretty naturally now.
Click Reply to this email and let me know which one will work best for YOU. May is Mental Health Month so my article on this topic was published on the YourTango Home Page. Click HERE to read full article. |
