To be considered...
I’ve heard a bit of wisdom repeatedly in different forms over the years, and it’s been helpful over the past few days.
You control what you do next.
The first time I remember seeing it was in the old Serenity Prayer. You might remember the bit about accepting the things you cannot change, the courage to change the things you can, and the wisdom to know the difference.
It’s expressed in a different context by author Trevor Moawad, founder of the company Limitless Minds and author of It Takes What It Takes and Getting to Neutral. Trevor’s work was introduced to me by Vince Fowler, a mentor and coach in his own business and life, and a good human to know.
Among the many nuggets of wisdom that lead to “you control what you do next” was how powerful negativity can be relative to positivity. That positivity in and of itself may not work for you, but neutral thinking might. Also, don’t say stupid ***t out loud. Makes me chuckle even now thinking about the way Trevor says it in the audiobook.
In any case, the “what you do next” part can be tough to figure out when you’re working on controlling your emotions and the ambient conversation/noise around you is negative.
So, I have a life-tested suggestion to help. At least in the short term.
Do good and don’t tell anyone about it.
No social media, no talking about it. Strictly for the good of it.
The ripple effect within you and outside of you may be small, but no less valuable for that.
Like what?
How about leaving an unsigned note with a tip for a server explaining what about their service made your experience better?
If you’re getting a coffee for yourself, why not pick up a $5 gift card and leave it anonymously on a coworker’s desk who’s having a tough day?
If you spot a homeless person outside a grocery store, grab a deli sandwich and bring it out to them before you shop your list.
When all else fails…give good hug.
Don’t forget about yourself in all this. Get outside and feed your soul with some fresh air and sunshine.
You control what you do next. That’s pretty much the extent of your “span of control.” Use it wisely by remembering the people and things you actually care about.