Ever Wonder Why Things Don't Go Your Way?

Today, I was on my way to work and my car broke down. Of course, it was the hottest day of the year, 90+ degree weather! What seemed like just another day turned out to have a wrench (no pun intended) thrown into the mix. Seeing as there is nothing I can do but wait for the tow truck, I’ll sit here, write this blog, and think about the situation in a glass half full way. Why stress out when I can’t control this situation?

1. When it rains, it pours.​

Ever wonder why things don’t go your way? To me, when it rains, it pours. I could get stressed out, have a panic attack, think about the million reasons why these situations are such a hassle. Or, I can enjoy this time, as much as possible, and think about the positives. I could be outside in the crazy heat, but I’m not. I’m sitting inside a safe, air-conditioned building, with a ton of friendly people around. Although I’m not looking forward to the lovely bill that is about to come my way, I know that my car will be working shortly and thank goodness for credit cards! Did I have a client today and now I have to cancel? Yes. Is there silver-lining in that situation? Nope. I just have to reschedule.


2. Mindfulness Exercise

Ever hear of mindfulness counseling? Basically, the concept is to be mindful in the present. Be aware of what is going on around you, staying present in the moment. Can this be difficult when you are in a pickle? Yep. Been there. Done that. Mindfulness does not come easy or natural when you are in a stressful situation. Be manually staying mindful, taking a conscious effort to be aware of the present moment, allows your brain to determine that you are not in a life threatening situation and sends out the more calming chemicals throughout your body. 


Take Away…

Here’s my take away for today: don’t freak out when your car breaks down. Just kidding. Stay mindful in the moment and look for the positives in your situation. I’m not saying it’s easy and sometimes you have to manually make the effort, but in the long run it will only help. It’s like this: you can pick which path you want to go down - either the stressed out, everything is a hassle path. Or, you can go down the let’s see the silver lining in this situation. You choose.


Let’s keep the conversation going. How do you keep your composure in stressful situations or when things don’t go your way? Leave your comments below.