We all have patterned responses. Patterned responses are like habits, but for behavior. Your dad says something that triggers you, and instead of responding intentionally, according to your values, you blow up. You react the same way you always do.
You’re left disappointed with yourself, again, but you don’t know what to do instead.
If you can think to yourself, “I don’t know what to do, but I know I don’t want to do that,” there’s one alternative you can try.
Do the opposite.
Do the opposite. It’s a small change that can net big results.
You don’t need to do the best or perfect thing. Whatever your normal response is to stress, fear, or a disagreement is, try doing the opposite.
Why the opposite? When you want to change but you’re in crisis-mode, it’s hard to make good or intentional choices about how to act. Actually, it’s hard to make any intentional choices. Our bodies are designed to act and react automatically when we experience stress. Your thinking brain is literally offline when you’re stressed or upset.
So cut down on thought. Don’t attempt the best or perfect thing. Try something that feels like the opposite of what you normally do.
It might not be the perfect choice, but at least it’s something different.
Try One Thing:
WHAT IS ONE WAY THAT YOU CAN DO THE OPPOSITE TODAY?
Related: Do Less
If you can’t do the opposite for now, that’s ok! Doing the opposite can be a scary step. Read “Do Less” for a starter.
