Phrases like “You made me…” or “I have to…” or “I had no choice” give away your power. You always have choices; the choices may come with consequences you do not like but they are still choices. Acknowledging that keeps it clear that you are making a decision between alternatives, you are exercising control, you are not a puppet on a string, that you have agency.
People’s words and actions may trigger upsetting emotions, but emotions are signals, input, not commands. Whomever angers you, controls you. Create that oh-so-valuable space between stimulus and reaction/response and stay in control. Accept that your emotions and your behavior are solely your responsibility and it is up to you to manage you regardless of others’ behavior.
Closing Quotes:
“When you allow a person’s words to upset you, you’re giving away your power.” – Phil McGraw
“When you React, you are giving away your power. When you Respond, you are staying in control of yourself.” – Bob Proctor
“If you focus on the actions of others and allow them to constantly upset you, then you are handing your peace over to them and giving away your power.” – Victoria Osteen
“The only way we can truly be happy is to realize that our thoughts, emotions, actions, and decisions are our responsibility and no one else’s.” – Lindsey Kasch, yoga teacher, vet tech, blogger: Peacefully Present
As always, I share what I most want and need to learn. – Nathan S. Collier