We all deal with it at some point in our lives. Those frustrating times when something happens to keep us from accomplishing what we’ve set out to do. Setting goals are important, but it’s just that-a goal. It’s something you set out to do at the beginning of the week only to find that due to constant interruptions or things beyond your control, you’re not anywhere close to completing it at the end of the week.
Don’t allow frustration to derail you!
Stay on track! Take a deep breath and tell yourself it’s ok. It’s not a failure, it’s a delay and delay is never final. How you look at this episode between now and your end result, will be key in how you end your race. It may be a diet goal or an exercise goal or a simple ‘keep it together’ goal, whatever it is and whatever got you off track, you can choose to get back up and go on.
You’re not responsible for everyone else’s happiness!
I once heard someone say, “Frustration comes from your inability to control someone or something.” Isn’t that the truth! There are things that are way out of our control and it’s not even in our wheelhouse to fix, so stay out of that arena. Don’t even allow yourself to get sucked into other peoples drama! Let them know you’ll pray for them or direct them to seek counseling, but don’t be frustrated with them if they choose not to do what you suggest. Some people are addicted to their drama and want to share it with everyone. Don’t except responsibility for their happiness or choices.
Learn to say no nicely!
I love spontaneity! It’s always been difficult for me to stay on task because most of the time it’s more fun to do other things. So for my own sake and the sake of my family time, I’ve had to learn that this little word ‘no’ is my friend otherwise I have a tendency to overcommit to things. I keep my calendar handy so that I can check it when asked to be involved in something. I also try to evaluate whether this will add more stress to my life. It may be a good idea, but is it a good idea for me? My usual response is this, “Let me check my schedule and get back with you. When do you need an answer?” If their response is ‘now’ then my answer is no, because I refuse to be pressured into something I may regret later on.
Get back up and get moving!
If you find yourself down for the count, ready to give in and give up, find something to motivate you to get up and get moving again. Discouragement is a key to failure so when you find yourself thinking wrong thoughts, replace them with right ones. I personally make myself listen to some positive teaching I’ve recorded, find a podcast, listen to upbeat music or I read to feed my spirit. I know this is going to sound weird, but I even talk out loud to myself. Nobody does a pep talk like me! So I look in the mirror and speak to my spirit, “You can do all things through Christ who gives you strength! You are more than a conqueror! You win every battle! Everything you set your hand to will succeed! Stop feeling sorry for yourself! There is nothing in life God hasn’t given you victory over!”
So if you find yourself frustrated, figure out what you’re frustrated with first, then let go of what you weren’t meant to change and tackle the things you have control of one thing at a time. Free yourself of guilt and shame over bumps in the road-it’s merely a part of your journey and just look forward to the moments when the road smooths out and your goal is in sight again.
Recent Comments