"Don't get your knickers in a knot.
Nothing is solved and it just makes you walk funny."
~Kathryn Carpenter
This quote is a reminder not to allow ourselves to get upset over the small stuff. When we overreact, we just make ourselves look silly and may alienate people as well. Unless you want to be the negative center of attention because your knickers are in a knot and you are walking funny, modulate your reactions. When you do, you'll be able to problem solve a solution because heavy duty emotions won't derail you. But, if you find yourself overreacting a lot, it may be because you have stockpiled negative emotions from past negative experiences and you are reacting to the accumulation of years worth of "stuff."
This week: Take stock of your reactions. How often do you "get your knickers in a knot" over something? Are there particular issues that trigger you? Are there particular people? What emotions show up when you are feeling this way? Anger? Hurt? Sadness? What would you need to believe in order to let it roll off your back? Experiment with telling yourself that belief the next time the situation arises. Breathe deeply. Count to ten. Hum your favorite song or another song that will change your state (e.g. "Don't Worry, Be Happy; Camptown Races; Zippity-Do-Dah; etc.). Keep breathing. Walk around the block or down the hall. Notice how easy it is to walk when your knickers aren't in a knot.
Linda Pucci, Ph.D. is a psychologist, life coach and expert at helping people get rid of stockpiled negative emotions that block their success and happiness. She brings over 33 years of experience and a vast toolbox of techniques for change to her individualized programs. For more information go to http://www.InnerResourceCenter.com .