10 ways to make doing things that suck, suck less
We've all got things we don't like doing - things that suck. For me, it's bad attitude, washing up, getting up early, changing the bins, and being late. Generally speaking, we get over it.
Then there's some things that are just really shit. They might be a one-off, or don't happen that regularly like having a meeting with your boss that you know probably isn't going to great, supporting people you love through illness, or making decisions that you really don't want to.
Let's face it - everyone has their own definition of shit - what may be my worst nightmare may be just something you do in your day-to-day life.
And that's the way it should be, because we're all different. (Judging people based on whether their shit compare to your shit isn't ok hthough.).
Having things you can do to deal with the shit helps. It helps us get through situations that really suck, and builds our internal resilience.
So, today I'm sharing things that can buffer situations that suck, and ways to look after yourself in the process.
Because it's all about self-care y'all know!
1. Bubble wrap the thing that sucks
Think of the thing that really sucks as being a fragile item. To some extent it has to be there, but that doesn't mean that it needs to be exposed to all the elements. With that in mind, bubble wrap the experience with nice things that don't need much mental focus. Before said shit thing, get a good night's sleep and have a hearty breakfast. After, plan a night in binge watching your favourite TV show, or reading a book.
2. Get some space and perspective
Too often, we get bogged down and the things we don't want to do become all-encompassing and they begin to blind side us. That's why taking some time our to get perspective is so helpful. For me, that means going to sit by the river near by my house, on my favourite log and just staring at the water and watching the ducks. It reduces my anxiety and reminds me of all the good things, and plans for the future. Whatever peace means for you, go try and get some before you embark on the rest of the day.
3. Get stuck in a good book
There's nothing like a page turner to get you out of your world and transport you somewhere far away. Say you've got a meeting that you're really dreading and know it's next week - a couple of days before, spend some time picking a book and getting really into it. A good book has got me out of the foulest moods many a time, and I really recommend it!
4. Phone a friend
Sometimes the thing we fancy doing the least is the thing that will help the most. Friends are there for the good and the bad, and it's okay to ask for help or for a listening ear. Ring up a close friend and talk it out with them. It's not about finding a solution, it's just about letting off some steam and getting support.
5. Put on your favourite music
Plug your headphones in and let them do the work. Choose music that makes you feel good, or you find cathartic, turn it up loud and let is carry you away. Sometimes this is all we need!
6. Have space for reflection
I'm of the belief that often the best learning curves and lessons come from the things that weren't great. And taking the time to reflect and think of lessons that can be learned from an experience can be great for dealing with future experiences.
7. Own your feelings, not anyone else's
We can only be responsible for how we feel, and that's something really worth remembering during shit times. How other people choose to respond is up to them. By putting in place those boundaries, we're less likely to feel powerless, and more likely to be able to cope ourselves. Just know that in every given moment, you're doing the best you can.
8. Remind yourself why you're doing it
Really go back to basics. Grab a pen and paper and write a list of the reasons why you're doing it. Keep yourself grounded by looking at your list before said shit things that put things into perspective. Sometimes we get the greatest gains out of doing things we don't want to do, and it's worth making sure the table is balanced.
9. Do something you really love
When faced with not so great situations, do something that makes you come alive. Think of things you absolutely love doing, and make time for them. I've written before on my blog about why we don't make time for doing the things we love. Make that time now.
10. Celebrate when it's all over
I'm all about celebrating small wins and finding closure to situations. It's more than making yourself feel good - it's about being proud of yourself for getting through it, and knowing you can get through hard stuff in the future. Go treat yourself to something, go somewhere you've been wanting to go and just celebrate yourself.
So there we have it, 10 things you can do to make doing things that suck, suck less. If you've got suggestions, I'd love to hear them below in the comments!
And remember, if all else fails, remember:
"No fim, tudo dá certo. Se não deu, ainda não chegou ao fim."Translation: "In the end, everything will be ok. If it's not ok, it's not yet the end.