Sometimes I can give the impression that nothing bothers me or that I’m “too happy”. Not that there is anything wrong with being optimistic, but we all know someone who seems so happy and positive that there can only be two possible explanations for such extreme joy—lobotomy or piles of Prozac.
While an optimist, I don’t think I fall into this “too happy” category. I’m a realistic optimist that can change my attitude and get back to center more quickly than most. That hasn’t always been the case. It’s the result of years and years of mental exercise (my favorite kind).
I’ll let you in on my best workout. It’s going to sound almost too simple, but hey, it’s been working for nearly 20 years, so who can argue with results. When a situation pops up that sends me spiraling, I ask myself one, simple question:
Is this worth my energy?
Sometimes the answer is yes. Sometimes the answer is no. Sometimes the answer is yes but not now. Asking this question helps me put things into perspective, and gives me the power to choose how to feel. Yep, choose how I feel.
I don’t want to give the impression that emotions are meaningless, or that feelings such as sadness and anger aren’t important. I mean, we have them, they must be there for some reason. That said, staying in the extremes (good or bad) can be destructive. Emotions are intended to give us information. Our job is to accept the information, then let go of the energy; hopefully armed with a little more information than we had before. Holding on to excess energy—especially the negative energy—can do some major damage to us mentally, physically, and psychically.
I don’t know what it’s like to deal with a chronic illness, extreme poverty, or caring for an aging parent. While I have my struggles, I know I’m privileged in many ways, and for that I’m very, very grateful. I do know that we’re all going to experience pain, sadness, happiness, joy, fear, peace, and love. I hope you choose to feel them all, and know when it’s time to let go of the ones that no longer serve you.
The choice is yours, choose wisely.
