Keep your cool as summer approaches.
Are you the ‘cool as a cucumber’ type who rolls with the punches and takes anything as it comes?
Or does your blood pressure elevate at the mere thought of a well-laid plan gone wrong?
One thing’s for certain – Stress is unavoidable. But how we handle it, is up to us.
So what’s your number one secret weapon in handling stress and finding serenity now?
One word: “Control”.
The moment stress or strife arises – Ask yourself what exactly can you control, right now?
For example, can you control:
Traffic?
The stranger who flashed a dirty look?
Incessant flight delays?
Disgruntled employees?
The negligent flight attendant who just dripped sugary soda all over you? 😡
The screaming kids 2 rows back?
Your ornery relative that just won’t let up?
All the time you just lost?
Unless you possess superpowers or are looking for trouble with the law, the answer to every single one is a big. fat. NOPE!
So what exactly might you be able to control?
How about:
Your reaction?
The way you talk to yourself?
The stories you tell yourself about what is going on?
Yep. That’s about it! And here’s the deal – these things you control are powerful and shape your resilience and peace of mind. You can even positively affect and influence those around you in a virtuous cycle.
Reflecting on what you can control broadens your perspective and illuminates exactly what problems exist in any given moment.
Often, there is no true problem. We may simply need to chill out, attend to ourselves, and not worry about others.
Say you’re awake at 3am, worrying about a relentless boss and upcoming to-dos. In that moment, ask: “what is under my control? What is my problem right now?” In this moment, your only ‘to-do’ is to relax and get some sleep. No amount of thought at 3am can control how someone will treat you, or whether or not you will be able to get something done. Tomorrow’s worries are for tomorrow – when it finally arrives. You can always write down details or problems to deal with later. Getting the details onto paper ensures you won’t forget it. (check our related article on journaling for better sleep)
Each day and season brings new stressors: difficult people, aging of ourselves and family members, work challenges, job transitions, relocation, new life, new death, starting over – again and again, disease, wellness, (did we mention traffic(?!)).. on and on it goes.
Summer brings more tourist travelers idling about our airports and cities, more crying babies on flights – and if you’ve got kids of your own, there’s a slew of activities to plan. Not to mention, the hot temps just keep getting hotter!
Despite it all, you hold the secret to serenity.
In any given moment, ask yourself what exactly can you control.. and work on that.
It’s not easy, but with practice – and a few deep breaths (Breathe Deep!) it can more and more become your second nature.
Here’s to health and serenity… Now.
Eat Clean + Breathe Deep + Move Often = Never Settle™
Healthy Anywhere helps executive travelers enjoy delicious, organic foods, and stay healthy, anywhere in the U.S. Our healthy concierge services include: travel nutrition and meal planning, food delivery, fitness support, and accountability. If you or someone you know would appreciate this level of support, get in touch to work with us.
Eat Clean + Breathe Deep + Move Often = Never Settle™
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