That’s life! or It is what it is! I hear those statements and want to speak up and say “Make Room For Your Feelings!” You don’t have full control over what happens to you. Things change whether you want them to or not. Many times the feelings are unpleasant and uncomfortable. It’s life!!!
When something happens and you feel bad, First Feel! It’s so important to acknowledge and accept feelings, such as anger, frustration, irritation or disappointment. This first step is where you have the most power in a situation that is outside your control.
An Example: Your favorite friend or boss decides to move out of town. It’s normal to feel disappointed and possibly angry too. You can pretend to be fine or make room for your feelings. I strongly suggest the second option. Denying difficult feelings depletes your mental, physical and emotional energy which negatively impacts you and others in your work and personal life.
The second step is where strategic problem solving comes into play. Now you can clearly look at the facts and be a more creative and smarter problem solver. Think proactive rather than reactive. Create a new Ideal Friend Profile. By focusing on “First Feel, Second Solve” you will get quicker and better results.
Taking action is the third step. Try not to be in a rush. Be strategic with a “baby steps” approach. Slow and steady really does win the race. It’s been proven over and over.
Remember when Frank Sinatra sang “That’s Life” I loved that song and naturally his voice too. My favorite verse is…
“I’ve been a puppet, a pauper, a pirate
A poet, a pawn and a king
I’ve been up and down and over and out
And I know one thing
Each time I find myself flat on my face
I pick myself up and get back in the race“
Before you pick yourself up take a few moments to make room for your feelings 🙂
Please forgive me for sounding like a broken record. I am very passionate about feelings and emotions and believe the hardest ones to feel are the most valuable. My plan is to share the reasons why in future posts and possibly other places too!
Cheers to Personal and Professional Growth in 2018!
With love,
MarGO!
Margo Geller, MS, MSW, CRC
Professional Counselor and Business and Life Coach
404-218-4559
MargoGeller @Gmail.com
www.MargoGeller.com
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