Written by Kristin Barton Cuthriell, M.Ed., MSW, LCSW
Today when I become frustrated, disappointed, angry, or impatient, I will ask myself three questions.
Will this matter next month?
Will this matter next year?
Is this a life changing event?
I will then calm myself and breathe; knowing that it is only my reaction to the event that is life changing.
Love the photo Kristin…soothing. As to the strategy, if only to effectively execute and stay calm and centered…great post
Deep breath.
Good strategy. 🙂
Hey there Kristin, these are great questions. I have to say, though, as someone who just started taking Zoloft for depression and anxiety: I cannot process these questions in the midst of that disease. What I mean to say is, when I’m not anxious or depressed I can calm myself relatively easily with these kinds of questions. But when I am anxious and depressed, no amount of logical thinking can ‘right my ship’. Maybe that should have been a sign for me years ago…”People keep saying stuff like this but it doesn’t work for me… I wonder why?”
Thank you for commenting. Research dialectical behavioral therapy skills and Marsha Linehan. Her skills take practice, but are evidence based. My thoughts are with you.
Yes, fishing helps a lot to calm the soul. So quiet on that lake. Time to think, or let your mind go blank for a while. Whatever works.
I agree. Thank you for commenting.
Reblogged this on Todd's Perspective and commented:
Although life is unmanageable we do have the power to choose our reactions…
Thank you, Todd.
LOL. Thanks for contributing to my blog… 😀
That should be printed on a card and kept in our pockets as a reminder in difficult times. Nice one.
A reminder in the pocket would be great! Thank you, Stuart.
Your timing is impeccable. This week has brought great stress and your thoughtful simple post gives me a much needed perspective. I am going to read, recite and repeat. Ohmmmm
I am glad it was good timing. Thank you for reading.
Indeed your timing is impeccable. I live in Ottawa, home of the Ottawa Senators, going into Game 7 in New York. Breathe . . . breathe . . .
I am glad it was good timing. Good luck with game 7. Thanks for commenting.
Love it!
Thank you.
So true, I needed that today! so all the stuff that I got mad about today, no…it doesn’t matter… THANK you:-)
You are welcome. Thank you for your comments. I have had to ask myself the three questions several times today.
Haha, I hear you:-)
I have posted this in my office…Thanks for the reminder..!!
Thank you! I am glad that it can help.
It is really excellent advice for stress and such . . . but having lost my son at 28 puts me and others like me into a different realm. I’m still struggling to not give in to the grief and pain of such a catastrophic loss. I enjoyed visiting your blog – thanks for sharing your insights.
I have another blog on grief – http://thedonjon.wordpress.com
Donna, please see my reply following your other comments. My thoughts are with you.