Have you ever had one of those days where nothing goes to plan?
I had 2 in a row last week! I seemed to be well planned but every simple choice seemed to go against me. The choice of route to each destination was the wrong choice with traffic or roadworks getting in the way.
I felt my blood boil at times and actually lost my temper a couple of times….
All I saw was red lights, traffic and problems. I was busy but getting nowhere and it didn’t feel great! All of the jobs still needing doing, and the day was nearly over, so I started to plan for the next day, feeling very frustrated.
The following day started in exactly the same fashion – I went to pick up my pre-ordered Christmas tree (for the 2nd time) and there was no-one there, again. I gritted my teeth and let out a scream in disbelief. “Here we go again”
On the drive home I suddenly noticed the view and how beautiful the day was. The sun was shining, it was cold and the sea was calm, so I stopped, got out of the car and had a quick walk along the sea front. I took deep breaths and smiled at being so lucky living near the beach – I love it.
By taking 20 minutes, to slow down and reflect, put me in such a good mood for the rest of the day. Nothing bothered me, even if it didn’t go to plan and I felt calmer and able to deal with ‘the red lights’
This time of the year can put us under a little extra pressure and it doesn’t take much to push us towards breaking point. I know, for me, I feel the tension rise and small things can get me angry, but when I put things into perspective and realise nothing is so important, it helps me deal with life.
In the next 2 weeks, leading to Christmas, I plan on being a bit more present and in the moment. When I feel snowed under I am going to (metaphorically) get out of the car and take a walk along the beach.
How will you deal with your pressure and turn the experience into a positive one?