Mindful Hack #99

When someone does or says something that upsets us, it's worth considering whether we're more bothered by the thing they did or said or the story we're telling ourselves about it. Often times there's a narrative running in the background that has little to do with the other person. We may be attaching some kind of meaning to the words or behaviour that simply isn't true.

For example, someone is late for a meeting and we find ourselves getting annoyed. Are we really bothered by the fact they're running behind or are we interpreting their tardiness as disrespectful? A signal that our time isn't important? Chances are good there's a legitimate reason they're late and it's not at all a reflection of their regard for us. When we can step back from the emotion we can see that, but it can be hard in the moment without mindfulness.

Shining the light of awareness on our feelings, especially when they're triggered by someone else, may also reveal thought-processes that aren't serving us. And then we have the opportunity to change them. So, getting curious about what's going on in our minds is a great way to circumvent negative emotions and to change the stories we create. Two more great reasons to practice mindfulness. It isn't hard, we just have to remember to do it!

Wishing you ease, today and always.

Mindfully yours,

Adriane